Loyalty

Aug 2022 Character Core

Relationships take many things: patience, grace, commitment, and arguably most important, loyalty. If you show loyalty in a relationship, that in turn encourages loyalty and trust in the other person. It makes conversation more honest and builds respect.

Zig Ziglar, an author and motivational speaker, included loyalty in what he called “[t]he foundation stones for a balanced success…” along with “honesty, character, integrity, faith, [and] love…” Loyalty does not, however, always mean agreement and never offering feedback or thoughtful criticism. The other person will have your best interest in mind, even if it means telling you something you don’t want to hear. True loyalty does not give permission for either person to take advantage of the other by using loyalty for personal benefit or advancement. Invest in relationships. Taking time to develop loyalty makes the relationship healthier and more likely to stand the test of time.

“Be loyal and trustworthy. Do not befriend anyone who is lower than yourself in this regard.” – Confucius