I don't want to sound preachy this month, but I have been noticing what gives people personal power. High integrity around their word seems to be a trait powerful people have in common.

Are you a liar? I bet you are.

Think for a moment of someone you know who is impeccable with their words and deeds. Hopefully you can think of one, or perhaps a few people who fit this mold. Those whose word is good as gold: when they say something, you know you can count on it. They exude a certain power and are usually held in high respect by others.

Unfortunately, this isn't most people. Most of us are liars. Oh, you may think you are not...after all, there was a good reason you couldn't keep your word. Maybe you are only loose with what you perceive to be the small things: being 5 minutes late, or not getting back to someone by when you said you would. We've all got GREAT excuses, usually, for when we don't keep our word and, hey, it's not all that important really. OR IS IT????

Perhaps instead, this shows up for you as as lies of OMISSION, when you don't share the whole picture. I'm not talking about perfection, but I am talking about an awareness and an impeccability.

Samurai in ancient Japan were so respectful of keeping their word, they would actually commit hari-kari (suicide) if they broke their word. How would it change what came out of your mouth if you knew your life depended on it?

Taking responsibility for your words and deeds and being hyper-aware of your own integrity will provide you with a foundation for everything else you do. Think about what message it gives others when you are 5 minutes late or don't come through as you promised you would?

COACHING TIP> This month, notice where you are less than impeccable with your word. Practice being true to what you have said. While, we cannot control everything, we can communicate when things change, or repromising when we see we can't keep our word. So, call the other person the minute you know what you said won't come to pass. Or, better yet, take EXTRAORDINARY action to make it happen--because you said you would.This isn't about being perfect, but about being a person who can be counted on; a person who is full of integrity. Operate as a Samurai and be very careful what you promise. Then deliver!!!!!