Breaking the Rules with Integrity

“Integrity simply means a willingness not to violate one’s identity.”

– Erich Fromm

Steve Jobs broke the “rules” with the design of the iPod and iTunes. Rosa Parks broke the “rules” by refusing to move to the back of the bus. A first line-supervisor at a Chemical Plant broke the “rules” when he violated established procedures in order to avoid contaminating a nearby watershed. Those who lead with integrity instinctively know when to leap barriers others see as insurmountable, push the limits and stretch the boundaries, going where no one has gone before.

With daily news headlines of leaders who have broken commitments, betrayed promises, and bent the rules for their own profit and gain, talk about rule-breaking can be difficult and easily misunderstood. Steve Boehlke understands, however, that the creative spirit will not thrive and innovation will not flourish without the courage to break the rules. He motivates his audience to examine their understanding of integrity – whether the integrity of data, the integrity of the plan, or organizational integrity – and then lead with new resolve.

Whether engaged in scientific research, high risk business ventures, the creative arts, or political action – courageous leaders take substantial risks to be true to themselves. They embody the responsible use of power and the powerful use of passion. Steve takes audiences on a journey that renews their commitment to lead with integrity in a complex and sometimes confusing world. Sharing
practical examples and inspiring stories, Steve’s
experience equips others to:

• Analyze personal readiness to trust one self more and lead from within
• Evaluate when to deviate from organizational norms and when to comply
• Assess a range of responses when others “break the rules”
• Communicate more authentically about the challenges of leading with integrity

Be a leader who follows your heart, not the rules!