Why honesty is the best policy?

Last Updated on March 27, 2026

I went to a Catholic school in 6th grade. Sister Alma, the school principal, told me honesty is the best policy when I told her I was lying to myself inside my head without knowing it. For some reason, that saying got stuck in my head for my whole life, and people tell me I’m the most honest person they ever met.

But why is honesty the best policy?

Because when you lie to yourself, you don’t know where you stand. You don’t know who you are or what you really like and don’t like. Honesty to other people is more of a gray area. Yes, it’s important to tell other people the truth, but it’s also okay to tell what is called a white lie, meaning a lie that is told to not hurt their feelings. However, a lie to yourself is never okay.

The nasty flaw in honesty

There is also a flaw in being totally honest with someone that has power over you for example your boss. If you finish and you tell him you’re done he’s just going to give you more work. Which will eventually lead to burn out. I haven’t discovered the solution to this problem if you have please let me know in the comments.

The benefits of honesty

The “benis” of honesty will be more aligned with your true purpose in life. Overall, you will be a more fulfilled and happy person in your personal relationship with yourself. People will respect and trust you more and be more helpful toward you.

Troubles avoidance

Most importantly, you will stay out of trouble with people and the law. It will lead to a much happier and more fulfilling life! Remember, honesty is the best policy..