“Integrity is the essence of everything successful.” — R. Buckminster Fuller

Integrity is the most important quality I aspire to in my work.

There are two meanings to this word. One — perhaps the most common — suggests abiding by a set of moral principles; acting under the guidance of a code of conduct, whether explicit or implicit. The other meaning has to do with wholeness; with the way the parts synergize coherently towards a purpose.

The two meanings are not in opposition to each other. In fact, moving towards a worthwhile purpose calls for integrity in both senses. When purpose is clear, it’s easier to coordinate the parts so they act in concert towards it, and this purpose can be — must be — informed by a clear understanding of what is right.