Why is loyalty crucial to my happiness?

Loyalty refers to the attitude of someone who does not deceive, betray, or abandon their friends or people with whom they have a special relationship, aligning themselves with the ideals or convictions that unite them.

We find the list of synonyms given by the Spanish dictionary for loyalty very interesting: fidelity, nobility, frankness, friendship, honesty, devotion, adherence, compliance, and observance.

We would like to refer specifically to the relationship between loyalty and fidelity, because although they are considered synonyms, they are not exactly the same thing.

“Loyalty” comes from the Latin word “legalitas” and defines a person's character. A loyal person adheres to a code of rules—explicit or implicit—and complies with it at all times. It is a commitment based on trust and values shared with another person.

When we talk about loyalty, we are referring to the consistency between a person's behavior and their ideals: a loyal person will choose to obey those values even in difficult situations, thus maintaining their pre-established commitments.

For its part, the word “fidelity,” which comes from the Latin “fidelitas,” could be said to go further, referring to a moral commitment where a person's consistency at that moral level comes into play. It is a behavior by which the morality of an act can be measured, which is to preserve the commitment made. One is faithful to commitments of a higher nature, such as vocation, marriage, or any other order, but at that supreme level of connection with one's neighbor.

Specific ways to demonstrate loyalty

As with all virtues, it is deeds that demonstrate the acquisition and development of loyalty. 

To this end, we wanted to highlight a series of situations in which loyalty is displayed in all its glory. Ultimately, these are ways of fulfilling promises or commitments by acting with determination.

Here are some examples of how to be loyal and promote loyalty:

• With friends: Support them at all times, don't speak ill of them behind their backs, be loyal to your shared commitment. For example, keep secrets, or be available for any need that friendship may present.

• With your partner: Prioritize each other's well-being and honor agreements. For example, support each other through emotional, work, or health challenges.

• With the family: supporting and caring for family members, maintaining—and enriching—family ties. For example, a child who cares for their sick or elderly parents.

• With the homeland: participate in the civic duties of citizens. For example, complying with the laws of the country where you were born or reside, as a sign of gratitude and even pride in belonging.

• With business: Build loyalty among a company's employees and customers, making them feel like they belong and are comfortable in their environment. For example, ensuring a good working environment or providing excellent customer service.

• With God: Commitment to the guiding principles or doctrine of one's religion, which ultimately comes from God himself. For example, observing moral law or, in the case of Catholicism, following the established commandments.

• With causes or ideologies: Maintain commitment to ideals, social causes, or political parties. For example, when it comes to voting and effectively casting a previously deliberated vote.

• With oneself: Being true to oneself, consistent with commitments made and decisions taken on a personal level, above feelings and circumstances or the situation at hand. For example, being authentic without letting trends influence decisions about one's lifestyle.

Given the above, we can naturally conclude that there is abundant happiness for those who approach life in terms of loyalty. Such people will not depend on their own tastes, on what others may say, or on any internal or external circumstances that undermine their authenticity, which will enable them to be who they are and, therefore, also satisfy those around them at every moment of their lives.