Principle of Step 5

🗣️ Step 5 of Recovery: The Principle of Integrity and Confession

Step 5 in the 12-step recovery model says:

“Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.”

This step is all about integrity—the courage to be fully honest, not just with yourself, but with someone else. It’s a powerful act of vulnerability and accountability.

🔑 Core Spiritual Principles of Step 5

• Integrity: Aligning your actions with your values by owning your past.

• Courage: Sharing your truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.

• Humility: Recognizing that you’re not perfect—and that’s okay.

• Accountability: Taking responsibility for your actions without excuses.

• Trust: Building deeper connections by being open and honest.

🧠 What This Step Really Means

• You’re moving from private reflection (Step 4) to shared truth.

• You’re choosing to release shame by speaking your story aloud.

• You’re building trust—with yourself, your Higher Power, and another person.

🛠️ How People Practice Step 5

• Sharing your moral inventory with a sponsor, therapist, or trusted friend.

• Speaking honestly without minimizing or exaggerating.

• Reflecting afterward on how it felt—and what you learned.

• Letting go of guilt and shame to make space for healing.