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If you research a definition for "Honesty" then you will see a series of comments stating that it is a human quality that values integrity and truth during communication with other people.

With this as a guide, how can it possibly be argued that honesty is not the best policy? If you value your word, your standing and your own integrity then honesty can be the only course of action to retain this. Honesty should not be used as an excuse for lack of tact or for stubbornness, but fundamental honesty must be a pre-requisite to live a happy, stress reduced and easier existence.

Life without honesty is very difficult. With dishonesty comes mistrust, lack of communication, deceit and hate. If you display a trend of being dishonest then friends will not want to be with you, make arrangements with you or communicate on a personal level with you. Once this trust is lost, then close relationships are sure to break down. Life without honesty leads to insecurity and stress. Everyone, no matter how experienced, feels the pang of guilt that telling a lie brings. The nervousness at the thought of being "caught out" can be all-consuming and leads to worry and stress. If you are caught out, your honor and trustworthiness are gone forever, so surely it is best to be honest?

Much of this type of dishonesty can lead from lies told easily about facts, happenings or minor personality issues, but these can be very damaging. The best way to avoid these types of lies is to remain true to what I feel are the 3 fundamentals of an honest lifestyle.

Be honest with yourself. Always be sure that you know your limitations and are working to your strengths. The self confidence that this brings allows you to prepare yourself for many situations that you may face. If not caught unawares, you will be able to deal with situations with truth and honesty and not have to revert to lies purely to escape from a situation or pass blame. If you have an issue, be honest with yourself and face that issue, allowing resolution without the need for deceit.

Be honest with others. A fairly obvious and wide ranging "rule", but it is important to treat others as you would want to be treated yourself. It is much easier to conduct relationships and retain confidence, with the background of honesty. Any thought of impropriety or deceit will cause doubt to occur, and a great degree of nervousness if the lie has yet to be exposed.

Be honest in love. The closest relationship that you will need to nurture is with your nearest and dearest. Always treat them with honesty and respect. The best way to achieve this is to always follow your heart in these matters. I truly believe that if your heart is telling you one thing, but your head is telling you something else, always follow your heart as it is this path that will make you happy. By doing this you are being honest with yourself and your loved ones, as you are doing what you know to be right.

Honesty is crucial to a life full of happiness, integrity and honor and, if delivered correctly, the truth is always best.

Learn more about this author, Stephen Bate.
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