True self. Real self. Authentic self.
Is blurting out an emotional reaction authentic?
Is saying “no” to giving the speech authentic?
Does a Harley Davidson tattoo show authenticity?
Is refusing to be a guest on a particular someone’s show authentic?
Was the “pile-on” post the authentic you?
I think sometimes we conflate authenticity with:
- Lack of empathy
- Lack of self-control
- Comfort
- Tribe loyalty
- Virtue signaling
- Status
The best definition of authenticity that I found comes from Brene Brown:
“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re 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 we are strong enough.
Authenticity demands Wholehearted living and loving – even when it’s hard, even when we’re wrestling with the shame and fear of not being good enough, and especially when the joy is so intense that we’re afraid to let ourselves feel it.
Mindfully practicing authenticity during our most soul-searching struggles is how we invite grace, joy, and gratitude into our lives.”
– Brent Brown, “The Gifts of Imperfection”
