Authenticity is a term we often encounter, but what does it truly mean? How can we embrace it in our lives? This serves as an introduction to authenticity and its significance in personal growth.
Defining Authenticity
Living authentically—staying true to yourself and leading a life aligned with your values and needs—can be challenging to define. While we are shaped by our cultures, influenced by our families, and molded by our environments, our individuality and uniqueness remain integral parts of who we are.
So, where does authenticity begin? How can we truly tell if we are living authentically?
In 2000, Michael Kernis and Brian Goldman introduced the Authenticity Inventory, which highlights four key factors:
- Self-Awareness: Having a clear understanding of and trust in your own motives, emotions, preferences, and abilities.
- Unbiased Processing: Evaluating your strengths and weaknesses with honesty and clarity, avoiding denial or blame.
- Behavior: Aligning your actions with your values and needs, even when it might invite criticism or rejection.
- Relational Orientation: Cultivating close relationships that thrive on openness and honesty.
Staying Authentic Amid External Pressures
Authenticity, at its core, means staying true to yourself—your spirit, essence, and values—regardless of external pressures to conform or act differently. This is a crucial aspect to reflect on, as we all encounter pressures from friends, partners, family, society, culture, or the media. How often do you find yourself resisting these influences and making choices that align with your true self? When making decisions, how frequently do external pressures play a role, and are you able to act against them to honor your own values?
Your journey to discovering authenticity will be as unique as you are. At its core, it involves living with autonomy, having the freedom to express yourself, and staying aligned with your values. For some, this might mean pursuing an unconventional lifestyle, such as starting a commune on a remote island free from societal constraints. However, for most of us, authenticity involves navigating social and familial structures, following a chosen spiritual path, or simply making intentional, independent choices about the life we want to lead.
Authenticity Is a Lifelong Journey
Accessing and embracing your authentic self is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing journey of self-discovery, growth, and understanding your place in the world. It involves continuously reflecting on how you want to show up, engage, and connect with others. Authenticity goes beyond self-fulfillment; it also enables you to contribute meaningfully to the greater good in a way that aligns with your personal beliefs and values.
Recognizing the importance of authenticity can empower you to make decisions that lead to long-term fulfillment and support your overall happiness and well-being. Whether you’re just starting your coaching journey and exploring authenticity, or you’ve been on a personal path of self-discovery for some time, connecting with your authentic self is a valuable area to focus on and grow.