Tag: Trust

By: Campbell Cromer

It is often said that honesty is the best policy, and honesty is considered one of the basic rules of life. But is honesty always the best policy? Yes, there are times where full disclosure is scary and can be dangerous to use, but honesty it means to create relationships and build trust among people and to help with personal growth and development.

First, honesty inspires trust. We demonstrate reliability to the people around us when we are honest. Trust forms a perfect foundation for meaningful relationships, whether personal, professional, or anything else. It is very difficult to regain trust it has been destroyed by dishonesty. What may seem like a harmless white lie in the moment can easily fall into something much bigger and destroy both connection and reliability. Honesty, on the other hand, fosters transparency, making others to feel safe with you and confident in your words.

While honesty is widely valued, there are instances where dishonesty can have a positive purpose. Some white lies, for example, can save relationships or spare someone unnecessary pain. In dangerous and high stake situations, such as protecting others from harm, dishonesty would be the best choice. Similarly, small lied can maintain harmony, like complimenting a friend’s efforts even if they aren’t the best. Though honesty remains the best option, thoughtful dishonesty, used very rarely, can sometimes show kindness, safety, or compassion but that is very rarely true. 

Some people argue that dishonesty can sometimes spare feelings or avoid conflict. However, lies often bring unintended consequences, creating larger issues in the long run. Even when the truth hurts, it allows for thought and resolution. Lies, by contrast, trap us in a life of discomfort and lies.

Ultimately, honesty is about integrity not just in how we treat others, but also in how you live with yourselves. A life built on truth, even with  challenges, is far more worth living than one covered in lies and deceit. Honesty isn’t just the best policy; it’s the only path to real connection and a long lasting life of personal growth.