It is about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest.
The choice to let our true selves be born.
There are people who consciously practice being authentic, there are people who don't, and there are the rest of us who are authentic on some days and not so on other days.
It is something most of us work towards. Sometimes, even if I am full of shame or self-doubt, I can sell myself out and be anybody you need me to be.
The idea that we can choose authenticity makes most of us feel both hopeful and exhausted. We feel hopeful because being real is something we value. Most of us are drawn to warm, down-to-earth, honest people, and we aspire to be like that in our own lives.
We feel exhausted because without even giving it too much thought, most of us know that choosing authenticity in a culture that dictates everything from how much we are supposed to weight to what our houses are supposed to look like is a huge undertaking.
Given the magnitude of the task at hand--be authentic in a culture that wants you to "fit in" and
"people please" -- asking ourselves, what is the definition of authenticity?
What are the parts that come together to create an authentic self?
Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we are supposed to be and
embracing who we are.
Choosing authenticity means:
- Cultivating the courage to be imperfect, to set boundaries, and to allow ourselves to be vulnerable.
- Exercising the compassion that comes from knowing that we are all made of strength and struggle; and
- Nurturing the connection and sense of belonging that can only happen when we believe that we are enough.
Mindfully practicing authenticity during our most soul searching struggles is how we invite grace, joy, and gratitude into our lives.
Brene Brown ~ The Gifts of Imperfection