Do you know the difference between Authenticity and Integrity? While they often go hand-in-hand, understanding the nuance between them can make a big difference in your journey. Really knowing what authenticity and integrity actually mean can help you truly live them.
Today’s Mindful Monday is a reflection on a topic very close to my heart. In my book, Shedding Shame: Finding Freedom to Live an Authentic Life, I explore how we can remove our masks to find true joy. Often, that journey starts with understanding what it means to be in alignment.
The Key Differences: Inside vs. Outside
While these two virtues overlap, they serve different roles in our personal growth:
Authenticity is about Being Real. It is the direct alignment between who you are on the inside and what you project to the world. Authenticity is choosing not to say "everything's great" when you're actually struggling. It’s the courage to be seen as you are.
Integrity is about Doing What is Right. It is about your internal moral compass—your values and ethics. Integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
While integrity guides our actions through a set of values, authenticity allows us to be seen in our most truthful, vulnerable state. You can have integrity (doing the right thing) but still lack authenticity (hiding how you feel). The goal is to bring both into harmony.
Your Practice This Week
I invite you to pay close attention to your "Inside vs. Outside" alignment this week:
Check-in: Throughout the day, pause and notice how you feel on the inside.
Observe: Look at what you are currently projecting to the world. Is there a gap?
The Choice: Choose just one moment today to be completely authentic. Share a real feeling, admit a struggle, or express a genuine joy without filtering it.
