What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?

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?

Syreeta C

Integrity. This is the only of the 3 that should be unconditional and never fluctuate due to change of context. Intelligence can be relative based on subject matter and who you are engaging with. Energy can change based on level of passion and/or exhaustion. Integrity should be reliable regardless of who or what you’re around and the topic at hand. Read more>>

Ismat Shahid

Out of intelligence , energy and integrity , the most important to me is integrity. Living with integrity ,where I am able to align my professional and personal choices in fact requires a large amount of intelligence and positive energy. Read more>>

A.V. Smith

It is an excellent question, and it’s taking me some time to really think about it. Intelligence, Energy, or Integrity- which one is most important? Intelligence allows us to develop and apply skills and/or knowledge. It is very beneficial in almost all aspects to move forward or upward. Energy is most effective for sustained mental and physical activity. Read more>>

Stephon Scott

Integrity because it’s what is apart of my morals ethics and values. Knowing I’m good in the skin I’m in. Read more>>

Amy Stone

For as long as I can remember, my parents have impressed upon me that integrity is the most essential attribute of being human. Read more>>

Allan Musterer

Integrity. It is doing the right thing regardeless of cost. Without integrity, our deeds lack authenticity and substance, Read more>>

Venkayla Haynes

For me, integrity always comes first. I refuse to compromise my values just to fit into an environment where the energy feels off, unhealthy, and ultimately more damaging than beneficial. I pride myself on being honest—if something doesn’t sit right with me, I’ll speak up, whether that’s private or in public. Read more>>