It is through your truths, your valued authentic self, that you will live life to the fullest. This is not about impressing your neighbor or bending someone else’s ideology to fit into your perspective, but to shine so bright that others only see you as your true self. It is in the moments we are living and learning from within that we prove we are capable of giving all we are meant to give. Society needs us. They need every single one of us. The ups and downs are part of the process. Trusting the process, the journey- it is how we get through life. No matter what you may believe in, you must believe in yourself.  

Creating authenticity is complicated. No one sets out to be anyone other than who we are, however, we meet society and suddenly we form comfortable walls around our hearts and minds hoping to fit in wherever the “it” crowd may be going. It is easy to fit in. There are no lessons needed to mold yourself into someone else’s beliefs. When we seek to speak our truths, often met with uncertainty, it is when we realize we aren’t one of the same. We cannot possibly become what everyone needs us to be; nor can we please everyone. Therefore, you must learn how to be uniquely yourself.  

Start small. Make a list of everything you stand for. While making this list repeat to yourself, no one else is going to see this list. This is a private moment. Do not write anything down simply to just impress someone. If your favorite thing to do on a Friday night is order extra cheesy pizza, sit in your jammies, and binge-watch Netflix – write it down. There is no shame here. Shame is only found when speaking anything less than your truth. As you write, be conscious of how quickly a thought comes forward. The more authentic you are, the faster the thought is going to come to you. We don’t stumble over what we like or dislike – we stumble when we are trying to people, please.  

I get it. Sometimes life is about fitting in. We have all lived through the boring work dinner where someone brought up politics and you sat there quietly biting your tongue as any other option might leave you fired! I understand. There is a time and place when to boast your authentic self and a time when to sit back and enjoy the show. Don’t worry. Your gut instincts on when to speak loudly versus when to let this moment go will step in every single time. Trust yourself to know the difference. I am wanting you to find your authentic voice in the moments where it matters.  

Authenticity brings forth real-life human connection. Through connectivity, we feel belonging. It is within this sense of belonging that we find love, friendship, honest working relationships, and overall joy. Whom we surround ourselves with absolute matters. When living a life that is true to who you are, in the moment of where you are, you will find the most honest human connections. Those connections, rather long lasting or a brief passerby are the moments we yearn for. Without human connection, our society is doled and lifeless. We need people. People need us.  

Get to know yourself. Trust the process. Enjoy living for all you are right now while understanding at any moment you can welcome change.  

In love and kindness, 

T

This was written by our contributing writer, Tiffani Bourriague.