Have you ever felt that something in your life isn’t quite aligned? Perhaps you’ve been living according to expectations, societal norms, family standards, or cultural ideals, without ever stopping to ask yourself: “Is this what I truly want?”
I’ve just finished an excellent book by Martha Beck, “The Way of Integrity”. In her book she describes living with integrity as being at one with our deepest, truest self. This idea resonated with me, but it also made me wonder: “How would we live in alignment if we’ve lost touch with who that truest self is? Where have we somehow veered off course along the way?”
Throughout my life, I’ve experienced many moments of inner conflict, moments when what I truly desired clashed with who I thought I was supposed to be. It often felt like two opposing personalities were at war within me: one, free-spirited and curious, yearning to break free; the other, tamed, insecure and compromising, trying to meet expectations. The result? Confusion, regret, and guilt for things I have done. I often found myself longing for freedom without fully understanding why. Looking back now, I have much more clarity about what was happening. I’ve made peace with who I am…heck, I’m even starting to genuinely like myself!
Through years of self-reflection, growth, and a commitment to understanding myself, I’ve come to see that living with integrity, or as I call it, “being authentic”, has become one of my core values. My choices now align with my personal north star. The journey hasn’t been linear, and it’s still evolving as I sift through old patterns, emotions, and impulses. But I can feel the shift in who I’m becoming, and it’s a beautiful thing.
Along the way, I’ve learned a few simple yet transformative steps to realign with integrity, steps I’d love to share with you.
The first step in realigning with integrity is acknowledging that we may be living unconsciously, portraying a version of ourselves to the world that contradicts our inner truth. It’s a daunting thought, but also an invitation. This is the moment to pause, go within, and listen to the quiet wisdom of our inner teacher. Our bodies, minds, and emotions are constantly speaking to us. Are we paying attention? Something within, perhaps a persistent tension in our chest or a restless mind might be giving us a sign that we are out of alignment. When we allow ourselves to listen, we open the door to transformative awareness. Asking these questions isn’t always easy. We may uncover fears, doubts, or even grief for the time spent living a life dictated by others or by our inherited limiting beliefs. But this courage to face our inner truth is the foundation of integrity.
Once we’ve acknowledged the disconnect, we are ready to realign; to consciously shift our patterns and behaviors so they reflect our deepest values and desires. This might mean asserting ourselves in ways we’ve previously avoided or breaking free from roles we’ve felt obligated to play.
Change begins with awareness, but transformation happens through action. How can we align our external behavior with our inner truth? If we’ve been permissive by letting our limitations shape our path, then how can we reclaim our voice and make choices that honor our authentic self? This shift asks for courage, intention and practice, and it is the key to unlocking authentic power.
The journey of integrity is not just about shedding what no longer serves us; it’s about embracing who we are at our core. When we live in alignment with our truth, we move toward self-mastery. This is not a destination but a way of being; one that brings clarity, purpose, and a sense of wholeness…we “become” in the truest sense of the word.
Integrity allows us to attract the benevolence and abundance of the universe because we are no longer in conflict with ourselves. Knowing who we are and acting from that place solidifies our foundation, making us magnetic to opportunities, relationships, and experiences that resonate with our highest good.
As you reflect on your life, consider this: are there areas where your outer behavior contradicts your inner truth? What patterns, beliefs, or habits might need to shift to bring you closer to integrity? The journey may not be easy, but it is definitely worth it. When you live with integrity, you are not just surviving; You are thriving, with authentic power and clarity guiding your path.
I am excited to share with you that a brand new program is in the making: "Designed to Thrive!" During our time together we will uncover what your “Way of Integrity” might look like. Designed to Thrive will launch Spring 2025. Stay tuned and reach out when you are ready to find our more: judy@thrivewithjudy.com
Image Credit: pexels.com/@abhinavcoca
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