There’s a vast difference between saying you have integrity and actually fully embodying it.

True integrity is all about consistency, honesty, and moral uprightness. But how do you know if a woman truly possesses this admirable trait?

Look no further than her behavior. Certain actions and habits can reveal an exceptional level of integrity.

In this article, we’ll delve into 8 specific behaviors that indicate a woman carries herself with high integrity. So, let’s evaluate these signs with an open mind and see if they ring true in the women you know and admire.

1) Consistency in actions and words

Integrity is not just about big, noble acts; it’s reflected in the small, everyday behaviors.

When a woman has high integrity, her actions align with her words. She doesn’t just talk a good game; she backs it up with her behavior. This consistency is a clear sign of integrity.

For example, when she keeps her promises. If a woman consistently follows through on her commitments, whether it’s coming to a party or helping out a friend, it demonstrates a respect for others and a sense of personal responsibility.

This consistency isn’t about perfection. Everyone makes mistakes. But a woman with high integrity will make it a rule, not an exception, to do as she says she will.

2) Honesty, even when it’s uncomfortable

A high level of integrity is often marked by honesty. And I’ve seen this firsthand.

I have a close friend, let’s call her Anna. Anna is one of those rare individuals who values truth above all else. I remember a time when we were planning a surprise birthday party for another friend. Unfortunately, Anna accidentally let slip about the party to the friend we were surprising.

Instead of trying to cover it up or lie, Anna immediately confessed and apologized, even though she knew she’d ruined the surprise. She could have easily made up a story or tried to divert our friend’s attention, but she chose honesty.

That’s integrity. It’s about being honest, even when it’s uncomfortable or awkward. It’s about valuing truth over convenience or personal gain. 

3) Respect for others

Did you know that the word ‘respect’ actually comes from the Latin word ‘respectus’, which means ‘to look back at’? This etymology reflects the idea that respect involves recognizing and appreciating the value in others.

A woman with high integrity always does this, regardless of their status or background. She’s not just being polite or considerate; she acknowledges the inherent worth of every individual.

The biggest indicator of this sign is that she doesn’t just show respect to those who can help her or those in positions of power. She respects everyone she interacts with, from the barista at her local coffee shop to her colleagues at work.

4) Accountability for actions

Accountability is another hallmark of a woman with high integrity. She takes responsibility for her actions, both good and bad, and doesn’t pass the buck or make excuses.

If she makes a mistake, she admits it, learns from it, and tries to rectify it. She doesn’t blame others or circumstances for her own failures or missteps. Instead, she uses these experiences as stepping stones to improve and grow.

A great example of this was the story with my friend Anna that I mentioned above. That’s a woman who understands the impact of her actions on others and is willing to take responsibility for the consequences. 

5) Fairness in judgement

A woman with high integrity is fair in her judgment of others. She doesn’t jump to conclusions, or make hasty decisions based on incomplete information.

Instead, she takes the time to understand the situation, and the people involved, before forming an opinion. She’s open-minded and considers different perspectives.

This fairness extends to herself as well. She doesn’t beat herself up over mistakes, nor does she inflate her own achievements. She assesses herself honestly and strives for improvement, not perfection.

6) Compassionate understanding

A woman with high integrity possesses a compassionate understanding towards others. She empathizes with their struggles and celebrates their successes.

I’ve often seen how this compassion can uplift those around her. It’s like a warm, comforting blanket that she generously wraps around those in need. It’s not about pity or charity, but genuine understanding and empathy.

This compassion shows that she values the feelings and experiences of others, and it’s a true reflection of her integrity. Her actions are driven not just by what is right, but also by what is kind.

7) Courage to stand for what’s right

Integrity often requires courage, especially when standing up for what’s right isn’t the easy thing to do. A woman with high integrity has this courage, and I’ve seen it in action.

When I was younger, I had a habit of taking shortcuts, thinking I was being efficient. One day, I decided to complete a team project on my own, without consulting my team members, just to finish it ahead of schedule.

A team member, who is now one of my closest friends, confronted me about it. She explained how my actions had undermined the team’s effort and trust. She didn’t do it to shame me, but to make me understand the importance of teamwork and respect.

It would have been easier for our friendship if she kept silent or just went along with what I had done. But she chose to stand up for what was right, even if it meant sparking a conflict. That courageous act showed me her integrity, and it’s a lesson I’ve carried with me ever since.

8) Humility in success and failure

Finally, humility is a significant trait of a woman with high integrity. She doesn’t let success go to her head, nor does she let failure bring her down.

She understands that success is often a result of collective effort and luck, and she doesn’t hesitate to acknowledge the contributions of others. She’s quick to share credit and slow to take it.

Similarly, in the face of failure, she doesn’t wallow in self-pity or deflect the blame. Instead, she reflects on her actions, learns from her mistakes, and moves forward with grace.

This humble approach to success and failure not only shows her integrity but also earns her the respect and admiration of others.

Final thoughts: Integrity is a choice

Remember, integrity is not about being perfect. It’s about being real, being accountable, and standing up for what’s right even when it’s hard.

The behaviors we’ve discussed are not the only signs of high integrity, but they provide a valuable starting point. They remind us that integrity is a trait we can all strive to cultivate within ourselves.

As C.S. Lewis said, “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” This timeless wisdom encapsulates the essence of integrity and serves as a guiding principle for us all.