Have you ever felt like you’re living someone else’s life instead of your own? Have you questioned whether you’re living up to your potential or simply going through the motions?
If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, it’s time to focus on finding your authentic self. Being true to yourself can be challenging in a world that undervalues authenticity. Still, it’s essential for personal fulfillment and living a purposeful life.
Below we’ll explore a few tips to help you find your true self and live your best life.
Embrace Self-Reflection
In a constantly changing world, losing sight of ourselves is easy. We often become so consumed with our daily responsibilities that we forget to take a moment to reflect on our lives, our passions, and our purpose.
When did you last sit down without distractions and reflect on who you are?
How do you feel authentic when you don’t spend time with yourself?
Intentional time. No music. No podcasts. No TV shows or movies.
Time in your thoughts, analyzing what you want to do, and visualizing the person you want to be. Visualization is so easy as a child, and somewhere along the way, as adults, this skill becomes underdeveloped.
Create a space for self-reflection daily. Write a journal, meditate, take a quiet walk, etc. These small practices over time will help uncover and stay connected to who you truly are.
Identify your values.
We typically move in a direction we are focused on. Acknowledging what you value gives you focus. Knowing what is most important to you in life can help you live in alignment with your authentic self.
Spend time thinking about the principles that shape your worldview, consider your life’s meaning and the legacy you’d like to leave behind and determine what drives and motivates you daily. This will help anchor and guide you as you navigate life’s challenges.
List your strengths and weaknesses.
Understanding your unique strengths and weaknesses can be powerful in discovering your authentic self. Your strengths are the skills, talents, and personal attributes that make you stand out, while your weaknesses are those areas that require improvement. With this understanding, you can focus on building on your strengths, accepting your weaknesses, and avoiding trying to live up to someone else’s standards.
Learn to accept your imperfections.
Nobody is perfect, and expecting perfection from ourselves is unrealistic and unhealthy. Acknowledge that making mistakes is a part of the growth process and that accepting them is essential to finding your authentic self. As the comedian Lucille Ball once said, “Love yourself first, and everything else falls into line. You have to love yourself to get anything done in this world.” Choose to embrace your flaws, and self-love will follow.
Stay true to yourself.
To be authentic, it’s crucial to stay true to yourself. Avoid people-pleasing because it can lead to conflict, stress, and compromising your values. Suppose you need to get in touch with yourself. In that case, you may find it difficult to assert yourself, making you more susceptible to external influences. Be true to yourself, and in doing so, you’ll find that you are more authentic with others.
Take-Home
Discovering your authentic self is a lifelong journey requiring daily effort, self-compassion, and patience. It’s okay to be who you are, even if it’s different than those around you. As the writer and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” Remember that only by knowing who you truly are can you fulfill your life’s purpose, forge meaningful relationships, and ultimately live your best life.
Thanks for reading! Let us know what you use to connect to your mind and body in the comments below.