Birthing Your Authentic Self

Who is your authentic self? And NOPE, she is not necessarily the person you have always been. And on top of that, she is not a new identity, selected to replace the old one. Your authentic self is who you are when your outward choices begin to align with your inner values, and definitely not align with the expectations, roles, or approval of other people.

Authentic does not mean unfiltered. It does not mean saying every thought aloud, refusing to compromise, or telling everyone everything. It means being aligned. It means you are no longer abandoning yourself to make everyone feel comfortable.

Birthing your authentic self begins with noticing. For example, notice what matters deeply to you now, notice if you are still performing instead of living, or notice which roles still fit and which you have outgrown. Especially take note of when you feel most completely like yourself, and what you would do if you did not have to explain your choice.

You do not have to answer every question right now. You do not, should not, feel the need to create a new identity over night. And, of course you do not need to announce ‘her’ arrival before you have had time to meet ‘her’ yourself.

Simply begin with one honest choice. For example, say yes when you mean yes. Say no when you mean no. Wear what delights you. Speak when you know your voice matters. Rest when your body asks. Follow what gives you energy.

Your authentic self is not a final destination. She will continue to grow as you do. You do not have to invent an entirely new person. You may simply need to stop hiding the one who is already trying to emerge.

Give her room.

Give her courage.

Give her time.

Then let her be born.

💚 The Accidental Blogger