As a leadership principle, the importance of integrity cannot be overstated. We know that those who perform at high levels are very clear about what they believe in. Those who perform at an average level are blurred as to their beliefs. The high performers will not compromise their values and principles. Others will compromise for even the slightest advantage.

So here are the questions for you: What are your values? What do you stand for? Most importantly, if you ask other people around you, would they say that your values are evident in how you deal with others?

Integrity in the Marine Corps and the other Services means an uprightness of character and soundness of moral principles. As we often say, having integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one is looking. It encompasses the qualities of truthfulness and honesty. A Marine’s word is his or her bond. For Marines, nothing less than complete honesty in all their dealings — with subordinates, peers, and superiors alike — is acceptable. As I described in my leadership book, I have heard retired Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Peter Pace say on several occasions, “If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don’t have integrity, nothing else matters.”

Effective and impactful leadership demands sterling integrity. From operating in the streets of Fallujah to working the boardroom in New York to taking care of your family, you should approach whatever you do with a long-range attitude, a focus on the future and maintaining the moral high ground. There is nothing more valuable in this day and age than people who accomplish what they say they will.

There is no reason that we cannot consistently be honorable in our own little spheres of influence. We will reap huge gains if we demonstrate to those around us that they can depend on what we say. Keeping your word will only make you more successful in the long run, no matter what you undertake in work or life. That simple practice may be the highest degree of integrity any of us can exercise.