If you’ve spent any time on social media, you’ve probably noticed most people’s lives are perfect – or so it seems. The truth is, most of what you see is fake, at least to some extent. Filters, along with the desire to share positivity have led to a world where much that looks successful is just an illusion.
As Brene Brown profoundly stated, “Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.” 🌿💖 In this digital age, where appearances often overshadow reality, the journey to authenticity becomes both crucial and challenging.
In the midst of this digital mirage, there lies a path to true authenticity. 💫 Let’s embark on this transformative journey together and discover how to live authentically in a world that often encourages us to fake it. 💖
1. Be You; With No Judgement🌟
Most people only share the good things in their lives. While I believe that this is good, the reasoning behind sharing only the good is more important.
If they feel that sharing the less desirable things, people might be turned off or not like them, then they are accepting they are not perfect. Do you do this? Think about this… who defines perfection? Whose idea of perfection have you bought into? Why do you consider your imperfections as such instead of those just ‘imperfections’ beings just you. 💫
Accept you and allow yourself to be who you are as this can build stronger connections with those who can relate. People find it easier to know who you truly are than to play games with who you are not. 🌸
2. Know Your Values 🌿
Being clear about your values allows you to be yourself without doubts. If you aren’t yet sure who you are, take time to explore what you want to stand for in this world. Be ready to drop some beliefs that you may have picked up as a child and held on to for dear life. Seek to define you, by understanding what it is that you value. And to help guide you through the future you could also create a personal mission statement based on your values. Let your values be your compass through life. 💖
3. Be Kind 🌼
Kindness is the language of authenticity. Show compassion, empathy, and genuine care for others. Your kindness isn’t just a reflection of your character; it’s a beacon of authenticity that attracts like-minded souls. 🌟
4. Listen More Than You Speak 🧘♀️
Another way to be more authentic is to be quiet. When you listen, rather than talk, something incredible happens. Have you heard of the quote by Greek philosopher, Epictetus “We have 2 ears and 1 mouth so that we can listen twice as much than we speak.” So, when you listen more, you start to understand people and can see the best way to respond to them. This in turn, creates a better, more authentic connection. 🎶
5. Be Open-Minded 🌈
If you want to be viewed as being authentic, it’s important that you stay open-minded and accepting of others. This includes knowing when to mind your own business and also being open to many ideas. When you are open-minded, even if you don’t agree, people will be drawn to you. Be curious, be respectful, and let your willingness to learn be a testament to your authenticity. 🌟
6. Understand Why You Make The Choices You Do 🤔
When you make choices, it’s good to know the reason behind the decision. Sometimes the reason could be simple – you like the way a blazer looks on you or you like the colour of the shirt. However, sometimes, there are deeper reasons for the things you do. Knowing them allows you to show your enthusiasm and happiness for the choices you make and the things you do. 💫
7. Follow Through with Integrity 🌟
Relationships are built on trust. Following through with what you say is an important part of being authentic. If you make a promise, keep it. If you absolutely cannot keep it, be honest as to why. When you are trustworthy, honest and transparent, people will view you as being authentic. 🌿
8. Mean What You Say, Say What You Mean 💬
Take some time to consider various situations that may come up in your life. How would the conversation flow? How would you respond? Does your response fit your values? Would be happy with the way you respond? Remember to always walk your talk. Don’t say one thing and do something else. 🌟
Being authentic isn’t always easy but the more you can do it, the better you will be able to relate to others. You’ll build stronger relationships in all areas of your life. Remember, being authentic isn’t about never using filters. It’s about when you do use that filter, you are honest about it.