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?

Jon Cunningham

My father was a very successful businessman, and he always emphasized one principle above all else: integrity. His motto was, “Always do what you say you’re going to do.” Intelligence and energy are important, but for me, integrity will always stand above the rest. Read more >>>

Dakota Whatley

I’d have to say integrity. For me, being honest and having strong values matters the most. Intelligence and energy are important, but without integrity, they do not mean much. I believe it is something that should carry through in all aspects of life, both personal and business. Read more >>>

Stevie Carter

Integrity is the most important quality on that list. It’s about keeping your word, showing up, and being dependable. It also means doing the right thing when no one is watching—and doing it without expecting recognition. Is energy important? Of course. But energy levels naturally vary from person to person, and within a team we can adapt to balance and support one another. Read more >>>

Jarod O’Brian

Wow! First, I want to acknowledge that this is a phenomenal question. No one has ever asked me this before. From the three options, energy is by far the most important to me. Energy is real. I can feel it, detect it, dissect it, and depending on the circumstances, choose to embrace it. Energy is an element that cannot lie. Read more >>>

Rashad Patterson

For me, integrity comes first. Growing up in Atlanta’s inner city, I learned quick that your word is everything. If people can’t trust you, nothing else really matters. Intelligence comes next — not just book smarts, but knowing how to move, read people, and make smart choices when life throws challenges your way. And energy is what keeps you going. Read more >>>

Richard Frazier-Sostillio

I believe integrity is most important. Being honest to oneself and to ourself as an organization is of the utmost importance. At Theatre Macon we take pride in the fact that we put people first in all that we do. Read more >>>

Bernard Ayala

‘Integrity is the most important to me. As a photographer, people trust me to capture some of their most meaningful moments, whether it’s a wedding, a portrait, or an event. Without integrity, that trust would be lost. Of course intelligence and energy are also valuable- intelligence helps me adapt creatively and technically, and energy keeps me motivated through long shoots-but integrity is the foundation. Read more >>>