In a world that often rewards conformity, understanding how to be authentic can feel like an uphill climb—yet, being authentic is one of the most fulfilling gifts you can give yourself. It’s the key to living a life aligned with your values, strengths, and true desires; and it’s completely within your reach.
Below, we explore practical steps to discover and reconnect with your authentic self and honor your individuality. Read on to learn more.
1. Understand What Authenticity Means to You
Being authentic starts with self-awareness. Authenticity isn’t about fitting someone else’s mold of individuality but living in harmony with your values and beliefs. To foster self-awareness, consider reflecting on what truly matters to you; and how you want to prioritize those things in life. Verbal processing, journaling, or meditative practices can help unearth these inner truths.
2. Let Go of External Expectations
As we’ve matured, many of us may have subconsciously adopted expectations and hidden weights stemming from societal pressures, family, or peers. To embrace your authentic self, you’ll need to first differentiate between what you’ve been taught to want, and what genuinely ignites passion in you.
As Leila began her transformation journey, she found that the number one reason she had been unhappy was because of external expectations. Instead of embracing her authentic self, she was trying to be the daughter, wife, mom, and business owner that others wanted her to be. If you’re not sure where to start, do what Leila did and consider asking yourself: “Am I doing this because it aligns with my values or because it’s expected of me?” You might be surprised at some of the answers that are unearthed.
3. Practice Vulnerability
Being truly authentic involves sharing your genuine thoughts, feelings, and experiences, even when it feels uncomfortable. This level of emotional intimacy in vulnerability fosters deeper connections and allows others to see the “real” you—leaving you with a sense of pride, peace, and calm in the fact of being truly “seen.”
If this doesn’t come naturally to you, don’t worry (and don’t be surprised). Many of us may be stifled due to experiences in our childhoods or previous seasons. Try starting small—perhaps by being honest with a close friend about your feelings about a topic or life event, or pursuing an interest you’ve been hesitant to share.
4. Accept Your Imperfections
Authenticity doesn’t mean perfection. In fact, it’s actually the opposite; and is defined by the intentional, mindful practice of embracing the messiness of being human. Acknowledging your flaws and mistakes with compassion lets you build confidence and resilience—plus, by showing up as you are, and accepting yourself, you inspire others to do the same.
5. Surround Yourself with Supportive People
The people you spend time with greatly influence your ability to be authentic. As such, it’s important to seek out relationships that encourage self-expression, growth, and acceptance of yourself instead of constrained, inauthentic connections.
Leila knows firsthand how difficult this process of letting go of those that no longer serve you can be. While you might be alone for a bit, it gives you the space to heal yourself and attract authentic, supportive connections in your life.
6. Trust Your Inner Compass
Living authentically means making decisions that align with your inner compass, even when they might not make sense to others. We’ll be the first to admit—trusting yourself over external opinions is an ongoing practice…but it becomes easier as you build confidence in your own judgment.
Why Authenticity Matters
Embracing your authentic self isn’t just a path to personal happiness; it creates a ripple effect, even in times of sadness or grieving. When you show up authentically, you give others permission to do the same; encouraging wider-spread trust, connection, and fulfillment in all areas of life—both yours and theirs.
Stepping into your truth is a journey—a process of unlearning what no longer serves you and making space for the parts of you that truly matter. The transformation element begins when you decide to show up as your true self.
Let the experts at VelaMira support you in uncovering the freedom, confidence, and alignment that come with living authentically. It’s time to step into a life that feels unmistakably yours.