The idea of authenticity is
something I have been contemplating a lot this year. I often wonder how I can
achieve being consistently faithful to the internal instead of the external.
How I can undo any counterfeiting of my character and become more bona fide,
genuine and trustworthy.
Last week in Amanda's blog, she talked about how every person is unique and not only
do we have our own skill set, but we also have our own perspective on things.
By acknowledging this, we can grow and collaborate together. But it must start
with being authentic.
Struggling to find what you align and identify with and how to act with your innermost being can be
difficult. Being authentic can also be painful
at times, especially when others do not see the same perspective as you and consequently doors become shut. Authenticity encourages you to be brave and in the long run, it brings the greatest relief to the heart.
Stephen Covey once said, “The
more authentic you become, the more genuine in your expression, particularly
regarding personal experiences and even self-doubts, the more people can relate
to your expression and the safer it makes them feel to express themselves. That
expression in turn feeds back on the other person’s spirit and genuine creative
empathy takes place, producing new insights and learning and a sense of
excitement and adventure that keeps the process going.”
In this sense, to be
authentic is also to trust yourself, and when we can trust each other, we are open. It
forces you to face your fears, not run from them, and allows you to put
fear into perspective. In remaining authentic, remind yourself that you can either judge yourself by your weakest moments or by your strongest, but ultimately it is your choice. Authenticity is also a choice. Have the courage to acknowledge your limitations and embrace your vulnerability. What it is that you want, admire, believe, dream and aspire to be? What is it that you cherish most? How do you want to connect with others? When we are loyal to our intentions we become bona fide. And when we align with our self image, stature and public image we are being authentic. So be
graciously authentic and thrive in being you.
