Owning Our Authenticity
This week's post is about living a life that's true to you. To embrace who you are is to show that you accept and value the unique set of gifts you have to offer the world.
"Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It’s about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen." ~Brené Brown
The people I adore most in life are, unapologetically, themselves. Examining the depth of their character is a study in how to be open, honest, and vulnerable. They are proud of their accomplishments and do not hide their mistakes. They are not afraid to be seen and heard. They also know the person in the mirror is the one they need to love first to be a champion for others.
There was a time in my life when I felt the need to hide my true self. I played down my talents. Every time I had a modest amount of success, I would vanish when it was time to take a bow. It felt like showcasing my accomplishments somehow dimmed the spotlight for others. So, I only allowed others to see a version of myself where the volume was set at 50%.
What I came to realize is that I had a fear of being seen as less than perfect and a fear of being judged. I let everyone else's opinion get in the way of living to my fullest potential. What it deprived me of is sharing my gifts with the world.
Reality check. Perfection is a myth; fallibility is the contrast we need in life for growth. We judge what we are, not what we are not.
It took decades of putting myself out there to understand that living my truth is a badge of honor. People respect you more when you do.
Facts:
The people who love you will be your cheerleaders, no matter what
By not sharing who you are and the gifts you have, you are taking away from others who need what you have to offer
The people who don't get you...may never get you. It's not your job to make them like you. You must be yourself
Run. Fast. If anyone ever tells you you're "too much" or to "tone it down"
At the end of the day, it's not your business what other people think of you
When you truly embrace your authenticity, you will know freedom and your success will look like a treasure chest of opportunities.
