"Empieza con lo que es correcto en lugar de lo que es aceptable"

Doing what’s right, instead of just what’s acceptable, really gets to the heart of acting with integrity. Rather than just going along with what everyone else thinks is okay, it’s about sticking to your principles and doing what you know is the right thing—even if it’s harder or less popular.

Think about the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. Back then, segregation was legally acceptable in many parts of the United States, but clearly, it wasn’t right. People like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks didn’t just settle for what was socially or legally acceptable. They stood up for what was right, fighting for equal rights and justice despite facing enormous opposition and personal risk. Their actions showed the power of prioritizing what’s right over what’s merely acceptable, and it led to profound, lasting changes in society.

Let’s bring this idea into a real-life, everyday situation. Imagine you’re at work, and you discover that a coworker is fudging numbers to make their performance look better. No one else seems to notice, and it’s not technically illegal—just a little deceitful. Most people might turn a blind eye, thinking, “Well, it’s not my problem.” But if you believe in doing what’s right, you’d address it. Maybe you talk to your coworker directly, offering them a chance to come clean, or you bring it up with your supervisor. It might be uncomfortable, but standing up for honesty and integrity is the right thing to do.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? First, develop a strong sense of your values. Know what you stand for so that when tricky situations arise, you’re prepared. Second, be willing to take action, even if it’s difficult. It’s easy to go with the flow, but true integrity often requires courage. Don’t be afraid to speak up or take a stand when something doesn’t feel right. And remember, you don’t have to do it alone—seek out allies who share your values.

Here’s a relatable story to bring it all home. Imagine you’re in high school, and a group of friends decides to cheat on a big test. They’ve figured out a way to get the answers in advance. Everyone’s doing it, and they’re encouraging you to join in. It’s tempting because getting a good grade without studying sounds great. But deep down, you know it’s wrong. You decide to study hard and take the test honestly. Your friends might tease you, and you might even get a lower grade than them, but you can sleep at night knowing you did the right thing. Plus, you’ve learned the material honestly, which will help you in the long run.

Choosing what’s right over what’s merely acceptable isn’t always easy. It can be challenging and sometimes even isolating. But in the end, it builds character, fosters trust, and creates a more ethical world. So next time you’re faced with a tough choice, remember this idea. Start with what’s right. You’ll never regret it.