Have you ever encountered someone who is desperately trying to win others’ approval and admiration? Chances are, they came across even more unlikeable because you could see their desperation to seem honorable. And anything good they do feels inauthentic.
When you live with honor, you don’t need to pretend. You don’t have to try to be perfect, worry about how you are perceived, or try hard to earn respect. And you aren’t dependent on external people validating that you are honorable.
How to Live with Honor
So, how do you live with honor? Keep reading.
Have Integrity
Live with integrity, according to your values. Get clear on what you value, whether that is relationships, money, career growth, adventure, family, or anything else. Remember, some people might align with your values and others may not. However, when you are clear on what you value, you can live in alignment to what is most important to you, which is all you need to live with integrity.
Be Authentic
Stay true to who you are. You can’t be honorable when you don’t honor who you are. It’s easy to pretend to like a certain kind of music or dress differently to fit in. While that might make you feel ‘cool’, being authentic is much more fulfilling. Remember, as you accept yourself fully, you empower others to accept their unique quirks as well.
Be Honest and Transparent
Being honest is one of the most honorable characteristics one can have. Sometimes it can be much easier to say a harmless white lie, but it takes courage to be honest. When you are honest and transparent, your word is taken much more seriously, and your opinions will be much more respected.
Accept Personal Responsibility
At the end of the day, we are all human beings, and we are bound to make mistakes. An honorable person takes responsibility for their mistakes rather than putting the blame on other people or situations.
Be Loyal
Don’t take your relationships for granted. Treat each person in your life with loyalty. Be a trustworthy friend. Whether it is a friend, a family member, or a co-worker, be the person that they can rely on. A true friend is an honorable friend.
Be Respectful
Treat others with respect. Don’t crack jokes at other people’s expense. Respect others’ emotions, needs, and opinions, whether you agree with them or not.
Be Kind
Small actions can go a long way, whether you give up your seat in the subway so that an elderly woman can sit down, or you open the door for your colleagues at work.
Be a source of positivity in people’s lives. Make people feel good about themselves. Compliment someone’s outfit, celebrate their achievements, and notice what they do well. Lift others up without trying to get something back.
Honor is not given to you by others. You can’t lie for it, steal it, or pretend to have it. You have to earn honor by being authentic, true to yourself, and living with integrity. Be who you say you are. Be a good friend and a reliable person. When people know that they can trust you, your word, and your actions, you will automatically earn honor.
