In today’s society, one of the latest buzz worthy items of note is about how we should show up being our authentic selves. You would think, showing up as yourself is as easy as it sounds but wait…it isn’t! Not for me, not for many. Until now, certain standards have been set and certain norms or etiquettes have been in place for decades. Think about it, natural hair, tattoos/body art, piercings, we were taught to speak and carry ourselves a certain way, etc. Now, we are being told that it is “ok”. So, what if you like to wear polka dots and stripes. Well, that doesn’t matter anymore, come on down as your authentic self. I digress. Showing up as your authentic self may be hard. But it is the best thing to do for your health. Being your authentic self can bring about numerous benefits and positive experiences. Following are a few:
Self-Acceptance: Embracing your authentic self allows you to accept and appreciate who you truly are. It promotes self-love, self-esteem, and self-worth, leading to a healthier and more fulfilling relationship with yourself.
Genuine Relationships: When you are authentic, you attract people who genuinely appreciate and connect with the real you. Your relationships become more meaningful and fulfilling because they are based on honesty and authenticity, fostering deeper connections and mutual understanding.
Inner Happiness: Living authentically aligns your actions and choices with your true values, beliefs, and desires. This alignment creates a sense of inner harmony and contentment, leading to greater overall happiness and fulfillment in life.
Increased Confidence: Being authentic empowers you to express yourself honestly and confidently. When you're comfortable in your own skin and embrace your uniqueness, you develop a strong sense of self-assurance, which positively impacts various areas of your life, including work, social interactions, and personal growth.
Stress Reduction: Living in alignment with your authentic self reduces the stress and emotional burden that comes from trying to fit into societal expectations or wearing a mask to please others. You experience a sense of liberation and ease when you no longer have to pretend or suppress your true nature.
Inspiring Others: When you live authentically, you inspire others to do the same. Your courage and vulnerability serve as a role model for those around you, encouraging them to embrace their authenticity, live their truth, and pursue their passions without fear or inhibition.
Remember, embracing your authentic self is a continuous journey that requires self-reflection, self-acceptance, and self-expression. It's about being true to yourself. Yes, it is hard. One thing I know for sure is that we can do the hard stuff and in in this case the results will make us better off for having done so!
Teresa