Activating Authenticity

As I prepare for the Born to Lead Summit this upcoming weekend, I started deepening my research on authenticity, to support my topic, Quit Playing Small. I came across this article entitled "Why Being Authentic Matters: How Authenticity & Self-Esteem Can Prevent Anxiety & Depression?". Honestly the article resonated heavily with the OYA brand and I figured I'd skim the surface.

Being Authentic

"acting in congruences, alignment or consistency with your true self"

Now y'all know I believe that introspection is one of the key factors to staying true to yourself. I think that one of the main reasons we are out of alignment and lack fulfillment, is because we aren't willing to pay attention to what we really think and feel. Many of us are on a rollercoaster trying to avoid our feelings, because we've become comfortable in the discomfort of our comfort zone.

Unfortunately though, our comfort zones may have been the result of others' expectations for us. I can tell you from experience, that some of the goals I had set for myself in previous years weren't necessarily my own. What no one tells us, is that although people mean you well, they cannot tap into what is on your heart, and in turn can't steer you in the right direction when you're unfulfilled and lacking joy.

Lack of fulfillment, I believe, is the result of going against your heart's desires; which derives from being inauthentic. Inauthenticity can give way to "routinely conforming to the expectations and standards of others, rather than to your own standards". In layman's terms, if you're constantly saying yes to everyone else, you're more than likely saying no to yourself.

Playing small looks like defying your feelings/desires regarding goals, appeasing others AKA people pleasing, doubting yourself because of another's fear or doubt, seeking validation, and the list goes on. The only way to combat playing small, suppressing your desires, and shrinking to a level below your greatest capabilities, is to activate the truest version of yourself.

You're the only person who can be authentically you. Think about it: only you have lived through your experiences, memories and journeys. No one else can be the star of your show, but you. So do me a favor, don't dim your light because you fear the responses that may result. Shine the light that's on the inside of you so that you can experience true joy. Authenticity breeds joy and fulfillment. Trust me.

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If this message resonated with you in the least bit, I am opening up the doors of the Activating Authenticity waitlist to you. It's for women who know that they are ready to embark on a purpose journey, or simple figure out their 'more' but have no clue where to start. If you have questions, book a discovery call for more details.