Are Integrity & Politics Mutually Exclusive?

I'm not asking that as a smart arse, but seriously. Is having integrity and practicing politics in the workplace and in government mutually exclusive?

Even if you had all the right intentions and vigorously maintained your integrity, would the politics just put you in the situation of being unable to accomplish what should be done? Is this where playing the game and the ends justify the means come in?

My husband has so much integrity. In his new role at work, he is responsible for about 250 folks. He has built a reputation on his integrity and telling the truth - even if it's not what someone wants to hear. As a result, many of the people that work for husband are very loyal to him. Some of his peers as well, but some not. That is true for some of the folks above him as well.

He struggles with whether or not he should let some of his integrity go. The ones around him that don't have any integrity can affect the lives of those working for my husband. We've had many a discussion on how doing the 'right thing' may not be able to combat the lies and deception of those only looking out for themselves, but who are unfortunately are in positions of power that can make the lives of so many miserable. Does he keep his integrity and lose the battle to help his reports, or does he lose himself by letting some of his integrity go?

He sometimes thinks he should let this role go. He doesn't like having this dilemma. But I ask him, if not you, then perhaps it will be one of those that don't care if their reports have time for their families, job satisfaction, and a career ladder. What to do, what to do...

UPDATE - I clicked "next blog" a few times right after writing this post and came across another blog that pertains. The Best of John had an entry relating to Meg Whitman, former CEO of eBay. The last bullet of "Lessons Learned" is Never ever compromise your integrity. =)

Sphere: Related Content