7 types of people you can always count on to do the right thing in life

We all know a few people who seem to have an unshakable moral compass—the ones who, no matter the situation, can be trusted to do the right thing.

They’re the friends who show up when others don’t, the colleagues who hold themselves to a high standard, and the family members who always seem to have a clear sense of what’s fair and kind.

But what makes them so reliable?

It turns out that there are certain personality types and mindsets that make people especially committed to integrity.

Curious if you’ve got one of these people in your life—or if you might even be one yourself?

Here are seven types of people you can always count on to do the right thing.

1) The trustworthy ally

Who doesn’t love a person who’s as reliable as a Swiss watch?

This is the kind of individual who values trust above all else. Their word is their bond, and they’ll move mountains to keep a promise.

These folks understand that trust isn’t given; it’s earned, one action at a time.

Whether it’s something as simple as returning a borrowed book on time or as significant as keeping a sensitive secret, they’ve got your back.

Their consistent reliability makes them a safe haven in an unpredictable world.

2) The empathetic listener

Have you ever had one of those days when everything seems to go wrong, and all you need is someone to lend an ear?

I remember a day like that. I was knee-deep in work stress, personal issues, and to top it all, my car broke down.

Just when I was about to lose it, I received a call from an old friend.

She didn’t offer advice or try to fix things. Instead, she just listened. Listened as I ranted about my awful day, my fears, my frustrations.

It was as if her silent understanding was a balm to my chaotic mind.

That’s when I realized the power of an empathetic listener. Someone who doesn’t just hear your words but feels them. They genuinely understand your feelings and allow you space to express them without judgment.

They’re the kind of people who make you feel heard and validated.

In a world where everyone is eager to express their opinion, these empathetic listeners are truly a breath of fresh air.

3) The quiet hero

Ever noticed how some people just have a knack for showing up when you need them the most?

There was this elderly gentleman in my neighborhood, Mr. Johnson.

He wasn’t someone who would make grand gestures or deliver inspiring speeches. But he had this uncanny ability to sense when someone was in trouble.

Like that winter night when our heat went out, and he showed up at our doorstep with a stack of firewood. Or the time he noticed a stray dog wandering the streets and took it upon himself to find the owner.

I guess what I’m trying to say is that Mr. Johnson embodied the essence of a quiet hero.

He didn’t crave recognition or applause. His actions spoke louder than any words could.

And I believe that’s what true heroes are made of – not flashy capes or superpowers, but the courage to extend a helping hand when it’s needed, without expecting anything in return.

4) The optimistic realist

Life isn’t always sunshine and roses, is it?

But then, there are those people who have this incredible ability to find the silver lining in the darkest of clouds. They’re not living in a fantasy world, they’re fully aware of the harsh realities.

However, they choose to focus on the positive, believing that every problem has a solution.

I have a colleague like that.

During our most challenging project, when everything seemed to be going against us, she was the one who kept reminding us of our strengths and how far we’d come.

She didn’t dismiss the obstacles; instead, she helped us see them as stepping stones towards our goal.

Her optimism was infectious, pulling us through some really tough times.

And that’s what an optimistic realist does. They do the right thing by encouraging others when they’re down, reminding them of their potential and helping them believe in themselves again.

5) The lifelong learner

Did you know that the most successful people in the world have one thing in common? They never stop learning.

I’ve had the privilege of knowing a few such individuals.

They have this unquenchable thirst for knowledge, this insatiable curiosity about the world. They’re constantly seeking to improve themselves and learn new things, not for accolades or recognition, but simply for the joy of learning.

Like my friend, Jake. He’s a successful entrepreneur now, but that hasn’t stopped him from being a student at heart. He’s always up for it, whether it’s:

• Learning a new language
• Mastering a musical instrument
• Delving into ancient history

What’s amazing about lifelong learners is their humility. They’re not afraid to admit what they don’t know and are always open to new ideas and perspectives.

In doing so, they inspire those around them to embrace learning and growth.

6) The compassionate soul

We all know someone who seems to have a heart that’s just a little bit bigger than the rest, don’t we?

I’ll never forget Mrs. Davis, my high school English teacher. She had this amazing ability to see beyond the surface, to truly understand what someone was going through.

There was a girl in our class who was extremely shy. She would barely talk in class, let alone participate in group activities. But Mrs. Davis saw her. She took the time to understand her and provided a safe space where she could express herself.

By the end of the year, that girl was one of the most active participants in class. All it took was a little compassion and understanding from Mrs. Davis.

That’s the power of a compassionate soul. They don’t just sympathize; they empathize. They feel your pain, understand your challenges, and do whatever they can to help you overcome them.

7) The principle-driven stalwart

At the heart of it all, there are those who stand tall, guided by a strong set of principles.

These are the people who refuse to sway in the face of adversity, people who stand their ground, no matter what.

My grandfather was one such person. He held his principles dearer than anything else.

Honesty, integrity, respect – these were more than just words to him; they were his way of life.

He taught me that no matter how tough the situation, compromising on your principles is never an option. It’s these values that define who we are and guide us in doing the right thing.

So remember, in a world where circumstances change like the wind, your principles keep you anchored. They’re your compass, leading you always to do what’s right.

Final takeaway

Recognizing the types of people who consistently do the right thing can be a comforting reminder of the goodness in the world.

Whether they’re the empathetic friends, the optimist realist, or the quiet hero, these individuals enrich our lives and inspire us to improve ourselves.

So, as you reflect on your own circle, cherish those who embody these traits and strive to cultivate a bit of that unwavering integrity in your own life.

After all, we could all use a little more of that dependable goodness in our everyday adventures!