There is no one path – to success or even to New York (or Kansas). Similarly, what matters to others can vary widely – so we tried to tighten up that question to focus on three key traits to see what most folks in our community valued most – intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Dina O. Nasr
I would always choose integrity. Intelligence and energy are valuable, but integrity is the foundation of true character. A person with a high level of integrity is trustworthy—you can turn to them for advice, support, or guidance without hesitation. They’ll be honest about whether they can help, or they’ll direct you to the best possible option. Read More>>
Syd Christopher
Integrity. Everyone has off days energetically and cannot be expected to be “on” and “perfect” all the time. And everyone is learning new things everyday, no matter how smart they think they are. But how we act in our community and to others around us is vital in my eyes. Read More>>
Sami Marquez
While Intelligence and Energy are wildly important, without a doubt, Integrity takes the cake here for me. Since I was a young girl, I have for whatever reason, innately shown up unapologetically authentic. One who speaks my truth and encourages others to do the same. When one acts or speaks from a place of honesty, it becomes empowering. Read More>>
Denise Campbell
Oh, this is a great question! Without a doubt, integrity is most important to me. Intelligence and energy on their own aren’t always positive.Someone can be very smart or full of energy, but if they lack integrity, they might use those qualities in harmful or selfish ways. Integrity puts character above capability. Read More>>
Ben Silberstein
Integrity is the most important of the three to me, because integrity is the quality of these three that is the least rewarded by society and the world at large. A dollar sign can be placed on intelligence and energy, but not integrity. Integrity is valued only by others with principles. Read More>>
Zach Adams
That is a no brainer, Integrity! Without integrity, intelligence becomes manipulation and energy becomes recklessness. Integrity builds trust, and trust is the foundation of lasting relationships, leadership, and success.Energy keeps things moving, intelligence guides the way—but integrity ensures it’s all pointed in the right direction.While intelligence and energy make someone effective, integrity makes them safe to trust. Read More>>
Chyina Powell
Integrity. Intelligence is important and you should be able to and willing to learn new things, however nothing comes before integrity. You can be an intelligent person or an enthusiastic person and have no morals or emotional intelligence. I have found that it is not only hard to work with those sorts of people, but it can be hard to be around them just in daily life. People without ethics always use the means to justify the ends and often hurt those around them because they don’t see them as important. Read More>>
Kathleen Rietz
Integrity, without a doubt. It’s the backbone of my business as an artist. Integrity is what builds trust with collectors, my students and collaborators. Read More>>
Maksim Baglaev
All three aspects are important and harmonize themselves. It’s hard to mention one thing, but maybe! I would say honesty comes first, especially if you’re being honest with yourself. Read More>>
Michelle Garbin
Integrity is the quality I value most. I believe it’s form of intelligence in itself- knowing the right thing to do- and the most meaningful way to focus your energy is on living by it. Read More>>
Graci Thompson
Intelligence is the measure of your ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills. Your energy is represented by the way you present yourself emotionally— your “vibes,” essentially. Integrity is the quality of being honest, and having a strong moral compass. Of the three, I think integrity is the most important, to me. Read More>>
Hope Hughes
For me, integrity is everything. It’s the foundation of everything I create for my company with Matt, from the first sketch to the final product for customers. At Ethereal Visions Publishing, we aren’t interested in chasing trends or producing disposable, pop-culture-driven products. We create timeless, intentional works that are meant to be held, revisited, and cherished. Read More>>
Gary Goldstein
For the work I do as a screenwriter, author and journalist, I think all three things–intelligence, energy, and integrity–are important. They often work synergistically as the traits one needs to understand and constantly improve at the craft, to stay motivated and endure, and to work most effectively with the people around you. I’ll add a fourth important thing: luck! Read More>>
Ohimai Ahonkhai
Integrity is the lens of your character. I believe is it the driving source of one’s personality. Integrity is the most important tool that creates the window into one’s heart and soul for others to see. Read More>>
Seana Zelazo
I love this question so much! Thank you for staring out with this one because I see this question as an orienting principle; it helps me arrive where I wish to be for this conversation. And thank you for the beautiful opportunity to share with your readers. I am so grateful. Integrity is the most important of these three to me. Read More>>
Lai Ubberud
Integrity is the most important for me. People respect me, trust me and I can Live with myself. Read More>>
Harley ☆TCG
Intelligence, it’s the root foundation of everything. Read More>>
Kerrie Droban
If I had to choose, I’d say integrity—hands down. Intelligence without integrity can be manipulative, and energy without integrity can be dangerous. In my work as a true crime author and host of Crime Stands Still, I’ve spent years unpacking the darkest corners of the human psyche, interviewing survivors, investigating cases, and confronting those who weaponize charm and intelligence to deceive. Read More>>
Amy Morton
Excellent question, as they are all very important attributes, but integrity for me is the most valuable. When I think of my relationships and friendships, integrity is what binds us. For me, integrity relates to emotional safety, trust, reliability and doing one’s best with a stance of honesty. Read More>>
Ivory Morgan-Burton
While I think they all are important. Integrity for me is #1. To be fair, honest, and always do the right thing. Maintaining strong principles of business and working with my clients is of utmost importance to me. I am always grateful for those I work for and work with. Staying transparent in my business dealings and agreements. The value of respecting myself and others. Read More>>
