Authentic: real or genuine; not copied or false.
Webster's Dictionary defines authentic using pretty words, such as "genuine" and "real." I don't know about you, but I would love to use those words to describe myself. I know that I am constantly trying to be my true self, despite the many influences that don't mirror who I am. Throughout my 19-year journey of life, I have collected some helpful tips on how to navigate through life being genuine and real; being authentic. Here are five ways I want to encourage you to practice authenticity.
1. Don't worry if some people think being religious is "uncool."
Stay true to your beliefs. Don't worry about being called a goody two-shoes or a prude. Doing things that are against your beliefs to please others is not being authentic and true to your values. Do not conform to others concerning your morals and convictions. Never compromise your integrity to be liked or accepted.
2. Don't worry about what is "in-style."
Now there are two sides to this piece of advice. First, if you wear something that is fashionable, but you don't actually like it, then don't wear it. On the other hand, if what you like and feel comfortable in is the hottest trend right now, wear it! You will still be authentic because you will be true to your taste. Wear what makes you feel fabulous and makes you feel truly yourself!
3. Be true to your personality.
Don't change the way you act to please people. Don't talk a certain way or do things just to blend in with the crowd. If we were all chameleons with our personalities, life would be pretty boring, wouldn't it?
4. Doing something crazy because you think it will make you authentic, is NOT being authentic.
Just because you buy some crazy outfit or act outrageous, if that does not reflect who you truly are, that is not being authentic. You shouldn't have to try to be authentic, it comes naturally, it is in your blood, it is who you are.
5. Be true to yourself when figuring out your future.
Don't worry about pursuing careers that you are expected to do. It is your life, not someone else's. Money should not be what you should solely base your career decision on. I know, I know, now you are thinking, Oh gosh, she's crazy! Hear me out, though! If you enjoy your job, you will love working and it won't feel like work. If you hate your job, you will only stay at an entry level position, thus not earning more money. How horrible to have a career you absolutely hate? Just do what you love and enjoy it, and the rest will work out.
Final thought: Do what makes you happy in life. Be you, it's so much easier and takes so much less effort than trying to please the world. There are a lot of people in this world and pleasing every single one of them seems like a very exhausting task. In the end, you are the one who has to live with yourself, why not be who you truly are? Embrace who you are. Be you. Be your authentic self!
"I will give thanks unto thee for I am fearfully and wonderfully made." Psalm 139:14
