There’s a lot of stock that gets put into being “authentic,” but what does that really mean?
In essence, it’s all about being true to yourself, whatever that means for you. Authenticity looks different for everyone, but if you’re living in a way that aligns with your beliefs and preferences, you’re doing well. Here are some things you should be doing if you want to be living authentically.
1. You should speak your mind, even if it’s unpopular.
It’s easy to go along with the crowd, but true authenticity means having the courage to express your own opinions, even if they seem a lot different from everyone else’s. Don’t be afraid to stay what you think and stand up for what you believe in, even if it ruffles a few feathers. Your voice matters.
2. You should embrace your quirks and imperfections.
Nobody’s perfect, and that’s okay! Embrace your quirks, your flaws, and all the little things that make you unique. Don’t try to fit into a mould or be someone you’re not. Authenticity is about celebrating your individuality, not hiding it.
3. You shouldn’t be afraid to say no.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of people-pleasing, but saying yes to everything can leave you feeling overwhelmed and resentful. Learn to set boundaries and say no when you need to. It’s okay to prioritise your own needs and well-being.
4. You should pursue your passions, even if they seem unconventional.
Don’t let fear or societal expectations hold you back from pursuing your dreams. Whether it’s a quirky hobby, a creative pursuit, or a career change, go after what makes your heart sing. True authenticity means living a life that’s aligned with your passions and values.
5. You should surround yourself with people who support and uplift you.
The company you keep can have a profound impact on your sense of self. Surround yourself with people who love and accept you for who you are, not who they want you to be. These positive relationships will make you happy and encourage you to be your most authentic self.
6. You should let go of the need for external validation.
Being desperate for external approval can be a slippery slope. True authenticity comes from within. Learn to value your own opinions and judgements, and don’t rely on validation from anyone else to feel good about yourself. You are enough, just as you are.
7. You shouldn’t be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them.
Mistakes are a natural part of life and an opportunity for growth. Don’t let fear of failure hold you back from trying new things or taking risks. Embrace your mistakes, learn from them, and keep moving forward.
8. You should prioritise self-care and make time for activities that nourish your soul.
Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is essential for living an authentic life. Make time for activities that bring you joy, reduce stress, and recharge your batteries. Whether it’s yoga, meditation, spending time in nature, or simply curling up with a good book, prioritise self-care and make it a non-negotiable part of your routine.
9. You shouldn’t compare yourself to anyone else.
Comparison is the thief of joy. It’s easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to other people, especially thanks to social media. But remember, everyone’s journey is different. Focus on your own path and celebrate your unique strengths and accomplishments. You are not in competition with anyone else.
10. You should express your emotions openly and honestly.
Bottling up your emotions can lead to resentment, anxiety, and a disconnect from your true self. Allow yourself to feel and express your emotions, whether it’s joy, sadness, anger, or fear. Communicating your feelings openly and honestly lets people truly know and understand you.
11. You shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength. We all need support sometimes, and there’s no shame in reaching out to friends, family, or a counsellor/therapist when you’re struggling. You’re not alone, and there are people who care about you and want to help.
12. You should celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem.
Source: Unsplash Acknowledging your achievements, even the ones that seem less impressive, is important for building self-confidence and recognising your progress. Take time to celebrate your wins and give yourself credit for the hard work you’ve put in. Every step forward, no matter how small, is worth celebrating.
13. You should be willing to let go of toxic relationships and situations that no longer serve you.
Source: Unsplash Sometimes, the most authentic thing you can do is walk away from relationships or situations that drain your energy or compromise your well-being. It’s okay to let go of people or things that no longer bring you joy or support your growth. Surround yourself with positive influences and create space for new opportunities and experiences.
14. You should trust your intuition and follow your gut feelings.
Source: Unsplash Your intuition is a powerful tool that can guide you towards your most authentic self. Learn to listen to your gut feelings and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Honour your inner wisdom and make choices that align with your values and intuition.
15. You should embrace change and be open to new experiences.
Source: Unsplash Life is supposed to be a journey of constant growth and evolution. Embrace change and be open to new experiences, even if they feel a bit scary or uncomfortable. Stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to unexpected opportunities and personal growth.
