Integrity
Larry’s Leadership Launch
He could have been fired. There were those who wanted to fire him. But Jeff, the employee’s manager, said no. There was pressure from the top level of the company to fire him. Jeff told them that it would be a mistake to fire this individual and that he would not be a part of it. He fought to keep him, and he won.
Jeff then developed a plan of accountability, education, and training for his team member. The road will not be easy and it will require investment. Jeff believes that it will be worth the effort. You see, he views this situation from a different perspective than others. He sees more than a position or an error that was made. Jeff sees the heart and desire of his team member. He also sees the potential that this person possesses.
The true essence of leadership is having the courage to believe in someone when others will not. It is taking a stand even when we know it will be hard. It means fighting for others who need an advocate. It means caring about the people that we influence.
Jeff had the integrity to take a stand when he could have taken a pass. He had the discipline to create a path of recovery and success for someone in his circle of influence. He did it because it was the right thing to do.
Choose to make the hard decision to stand in the gap for others and you will make a difference.
Larry Little
Eagle Center for Leadership
At North Wind, Integrity is the measure of how closely our actions match our values. It reflects the strength of our character and the reliability of our word. Integrity is not a single choice but a pattern of choices that reveal what we stand for, defining how we earn trust, uphold quality, and maintain accountability in everything we do.
Integrity matters because our work depends on credibility. Every decision, conversation, and commitment contributes to how others experience North Wind. When integrity guides our actions, we create an environment where people feel respected, supported, and confident in the standards that shape our culture.
“Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.”
The Integrity pillar is supported by three values: Honesty, Courage, and Ethics.
Honesty ensures that our communication is transparent and our intentions are clear. It reminds us to speak truthfully, admit mistakes, and align what we say with what we do.
Courage gives us the strength to act on our principles, even when the outcome is uncertain or the choice is unpopular. It calls us to face difficult conversations and take responsibility when challenges arise.
Ethics provides the framework for making decisions that protect both people and purpose. It requires fairness, respect, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is right.
Together, these values define what it means to lead with integrity at North Wind. We’ll begin with Honesty.
