09.04.23 The 5th Practice for Developing Trustworthy Habits as You Wait Demonstrate Integrity When you Make Mistakes

5. Demonstrate Integrity When you Make Mistakes

As you wait, learn how to respond with integrity when your conduct falls short of the standards you have established. When you realise that you have acted in an untrustworthy manner, such as failing to keep a commitment, practise acknowledging the mistake rather than concealing it, ignoring it or shifting blame to others. Be quick to apologise without minimising what happened, and explain how you will correct the situation.

Proverbs 28:13 teaches that whoever conceals wrongdoing does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces it finds mercy. So, be transparent; albeit with wisdom, rather than declaring your shortcomings on the street. When mistakes are handled with humility and sincerity, trust can be restored because people see that you value truth and responsibility more than protecting your reputation. But even then, avoid over-sharing.