Mindset Matters - Episode #175 - Integrity: WTF? I'm Confused!

In this thought-provoking episode of Mindset Matters, hosts Patrick and Steffany Hanlen Francey take a deep dive into the meaning of integrity—one of the most frequently cited core values, yet often misunderstood. They challenge listeners to redefine integrity, moving beyond societal judgments and external expectations to a deeply personal standard: Are you living in alignment with your own values?

The discussion opens with a powerful observation: integrity often appears on people’s top values list, yet many operate outside of it—consciously or unconsciously. Patrick and Steffany break down the idea that integrity isn’t about how others perceive you but rather how truthful you are with yourself. They explore real-life examples of how misalignment with one’s values can manifest in stress, anxiety, and dissatisfaction, whether in personal relationships, career choices, or even everyday habits.

Using the concept of structural integrity, they draw a parallel between maintaining a solid foundation in architecture and staying true to one’s internal framework. Just as a bridge collapses when its integrity is compromised, so too does personal well-being when one’s actions contradict their core beliefs. The hosts also examine the role of societal and professional pressures that push individuals to make choices misaligned with their values—such as career decisions made out of financial necessity rather than passion and authenticity.

This episode also delves into the nuanced challenges of integrity in modern workplaces, particularly within the realm of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Patrick and Steffany offer insights into the emotional and ethical dilemmas that arise when individuals feel forced to compromise their values to fit external frameworks.

Through engaging storytelling and real-life scenarios—including the inspiring story of a golfer who upheld integrity at great financial cost—this episode encourages listeners to take a personal integrity check. Patrick and Steffany emphasize that while making integrity-driven choices can be difficult and even lonely at times, the long-term benefits far outweigh the short-term discomfort.

Tune in to Mindset Matters for an eye-opening conversation that challenges you to reflect on your own values, question societal definitions of integrity, and take ownership of living in alignment with who you truly are.