Ways to Embrace Your Authenticity

Authenticity is one of the biggest buzzwords of the decade and why? Perhaps the emergence of social media and AI fueled the fire. With many questioning what is real and what is fake the need for word or promise of the veracity of a product, service, or person is warranted.

For many years now I have viewed the evening news through a filter of questioning and reserve, a skill I believe most of us learn as younguns. Parental warnings not to trust strangers or those out to trick us, our biggest teachers. Smart move to avoid the consumption of fake news however what reserves are required when it comes to people, if any?

First let's examine the word authenticity: a noun to describe the quality to which someone or something is authentic. How real is that thing which we have been exposed to? Other words to describe this include: 

• Genuineness

• Originality

• Sincerity

• Realness

• Truthfulness

• Validity

• Legitimacy 

• Integrity

• Credibility

• Trustworthiness

• Transparency

• Uniqueness

• Reliability

• Honesty

• Veracity

All of this comes down to one question, are you as a person legit? For me this means, do you live and breathe your core values. Are you the same person at this moment as you are with your family and friends, your Doctor, your boss, your Grandmother? Here are a few techniques you can use to ensure you are a legit, unique and authentic person ready to take on the world.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, Who's the Real You of Them All?

Ah, the mirror – the ultimate oracle of authenticity! But we're not talking Snow White's mirror; we're talking about your internal selfie mirror. Look deep into your own eyes (bonus points for winking at yourself) and ask, "Mirror, mirror, what makes me uniquely me?", "What are my core values?", and "When have I lived out those values".

Embrace whatever comes up, the quirks of personality, the deep desires, those laughter lines, and that hair you love to hate. Authenticity begins with embracing your reflection (both outward and inward) – the good, the quirky, and unique.

Adventure: Where Comfort Zones Fear to Tread

To truly test the bounds of your authentic self you should step out of the ordinary and explore new horizons. Whether it's trying a funky recipe, attempting that daring hobby, or befriending a llama, embracing new experiences lets you go to the fence of your authentic self and see if it will jump over. From spiritual practices, to education, to dating, to having a family and beyond, each adventure is chapter of your story and how you choose to navigate through it is an expression of your authentic self.

Magic Mirror Journaling

Who needs a magic mirror when you have a journal? Imagine your journal as a mystical mirror that reflects your thoughts and dreams. Pour out your feelings, explore your passions, and pen down your innermost whispers. It's like having a tête-à-tête with your own soul, and the secrets you discover will be the treasures of your authentic self.

Besties and Fair Weather Friends

Just like dolphins live with their tribe, the authentic you should be mirrored by those in your flock. Have a look at those you spend the majority of time with and ask if they are they are a good reflection of your true self and what you value. Surround yourself with people who not only embrace your sparkle but also sprinkle it on your authenticity journey.

Embrace Your Inner Child

The land of authenticity is also the realm of childhood wonder. Embrace your inner child – unleash your imagination, indulge in creativity, and play like it's recess time. Letting go of inhibitions and allowing yourself the time to be playful and magical reveals our beautiful and unapologetic selves!

Shake It Like Nobody's Watching

Dancing is the soul's way of high-fiving the universe, and every single person on this Earth has a bod they can move, in their own unique way! The benefit is in realising that your body moves to the beat of your own drum and when you put on your favorite tune, summon your best dance moves, and let the rhythm of authenticity guide your fancy footwork you get a rush of endorphins that drive self-love and acceptance. Whether it's a moonwalk, the classic sprinkler move or just the side-to-side shuffle, dancing lets your authenticity shine.

Whether you are on the journey to your authentic self or struggling to make sense of what is real in this world it's important to keep in mind that authenticity is about being true, real, and genuine in your actions, words, and identity. So simply ask yourself am I being true at this moment or is this person being true at this moment? Then trust your gut! Sometimes it is the best gauge of authenticity we can call upon.

For further reading on Authenticity and Personal Brand:

👉🏻Quotes to inspire your Personal Brand

👉🏻The A to Z of Personal Brand building

👉🏻What are the MUST HAVEs to create a powerful Personal Brand

👉🏻What is personal branding and why it's so important to be authentic in 2023

Pick my brain about building your Authentic Personal Brand with a Free 15 Minute Clarity Call- book a time to suit you here 👉🏻 LETS TALK