Chipped nails, Instagram photos with no filters, smudged eyeliner- all these things have something in common, and it's authenticity. These things seem like something in everyday life because they are. Authenticity is merely the practice of allowing yourself to be human. It's admitting that not everything will always be under control and sometimes our lives won't always be as perfect as we try to make them out to be. It's more than just being ourselves but seeing us in the light of who Jesus tells us we are and accepting that. Authenticity gives us the freedom to not compare ourselves to others. It gives us the ability to be okay with being transparent with others. With that being said, here is the way to authenticity.

1. Really know your values

Take a day to really understand what you believe about the world. If you believe that drinking is bad or marriage is essential, make up your mind about these issues and stay true to them. If friendship and community is important to you, then be intentional with your friendships and keep your eyes fixed on that. No matter how small or large your values tend to be, always be willing to follow through.

2. Be vulnerable

Being willing to to be transparent with someone about your struggles. It's okay not to be strong and seem like everything is good all the time. With social media nowadays, it's very easy to put up a happy picture of you and your friends, when a week ago you and the same group of friends were fighting. It's very easy to put a filter on everything and make your life look fun and effortless, even while you're suffering. You don't have to tell everyone about your struggles, but at least try not to give off a vibe that everything is perfect. It's also okay to express your shortcomings. Fortunately, God didn't create us to do everything. He designed our strengths, and when we're admitting we can't do something, we admit that we need God.

3. Limit your time on social media

Comparison suffocates authenticity. When we try to measure up to some standard, whether it be set by our schools, parents, pr friends, we risk trying to achieve perfection. We become so consumed with doing everything right that we forget our own weaknesses. Unfortunately, social media plays a huge role in helping us compare ourselves to others making us feel lowly. Limiting it is what takes the object of our comparison away and forces us to stop thinking about others negatively.

4. Be intentional

This sounds odd, but learn to really take in new experiences. Learn to put your phone away and embrace whatever you are doing. If you're watching a movie, don't scroll through Instagram. If you're hanging out with friends, don't snapchat it; learn to be in the moment and enjoy it. Your joy for life will radiate, and others will see it.

Authenticity isn't just about outward change but inner transformation. It is knowing your place in Jesus and where you stand.