Honesty – authenticity, sincerity and integrity

For aspiring entrepreneurs, honesty is not just a virtue, but a fundamental principle for success. It is not just about speaking the truth, but also about living by it and remaining true to one's principles. Honest entrepreneurs have both feet on the ground and do not pretend. This strength manifests itself in showing one's own feelings, intentions and commitments both in public and in private. This often goes hand in hand with a clear alignment of personal goals with one's own values and interests.

Entrepreneurship requires honest self-assessment and the ability to take responsibility for feelings and actions. Authenticity and integrity are recognisable not only in what you say but also in how you act. This is why entrepreneurs are perceived as reliable and down-to-earth.

Implications for peer learning

Entrepreneurs who possess these strengths are likely to found companies that are built on a foundation of trust and credibility. They can focus on industries where transparency and ethical behaviour are required, such as social entrepreneurship or sustainable development. These areas offer opportunities to integrate their values and beliefs into their business activities and to exert a positive influence on society. People with these strengths should focus on ventures that aim for long-term relationships and sustainable growth, while short-term profit maximisation or questionable business practices may be less compatible with their values.

Resources:

• Glanzberg, Michael (2023) „Truth”, The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Edward N. Zalta & Uri Nodelman (eds.)
  
  
• Williams, B. (2002). Truth and Truthfulness: An Essay in Genealogy. Princeton University Press.