Authenticity Matters

 

Authenticity is the new buzz word that has the flavor everyone wants, including myself. My most  memorable friendships and relationships come from people that are authentic. Let’s be clear here authenticity is not common, it doesn’t grow on trees, and the unfortunate reality is that it is more of an exception than a rule. What is authenticity? It is a result of being genuine, honest, and true, but let’s go a little deeper. Authentic people do what they say they will do, they know who they are and they don’t shift personalities and values according to circumstances or who they’re with. They are purposeful, intentional and practice being in alignment with their actions, feelings, words and values. We live in a society where rejection and exclusion are perceptible. Individuals are more likely to compromise their truth in exchange for being accepted. To truly become authentic, you must come to awareness of what is real and what is perception, if you don’t know who you are, how can you find truth in the world around you.

Who are You?

If you are ready to embark upon a journey that reveals your authenticity start by looking inward, not outward, and own who you are at the core recognizing your strengths and weaknesses, the good and the not so good, do it without judging. Having self-compassion and kindness for ourselves helps with being compassionate towards others. Develop the willingness to become vulnerable, transparent, and not be afraid and ashamed to admit inadequacies, flaws, imperfections and limitations. I am certainly not afraid to admit my short-comings, it has been my path to freedom. My journey towards authenticity began with self- reflective mirror talk. I challenged negative self-talk using positive affirmations to replace my limiting beliefs. I would look at myself in the mirror and speak “I look for my stars, not my scars, I am loved, I am human, I make mistakes, I am an overcomer I am not perfect, I am enough, I love myself for who I am” When I became able to accept the nice things about myself, I no longer sought validation from outside sources. Everyone’s life purpose, gifts and abilities are deeply interwoven with the identity of their authentic self. To some people the idea of an authentic life seems rather scary. If this is you, try to remember that part of our creation is who we were created to be. You are authenticated for a purpose. Destiny is waiting for you to arrive authenticity matters.




Pamela Gardner