Creating real freedom
We live in a world that thrives on conformity. Without realizing it, we instinctively mold ourselves to fit society’s expectations—even though the system is broken.
Our authenticity is constantly under attack.
Comparison creeps in. Our failures feel like proof that we’re not good enough. We start people-pleasing, shrinking ourselves, forcing our identity into boxes that were never meant for us. And in the process, we begin living a life that doesn’t create life within us.
But here’s the truth: You don’t find yourself by following society’s broken rules. You find yourself by learning who you truly are.
How to Break the Cycle
Authenticity isn’t about chasing some perfect, fully-formed version of yourself. It’s about unlearning, experimenting, and getting curious about what feels real to you—right now. Here’s how to start:
1. Do Things You Know You Might Fail At
Stop waiting until you’re “ready.” Try the hobby you know nothing about. Step into the gym even if you feel out of place. Take the risk that scares you. Failure isn’t the enemy—stagnation is.
2. Allow People to Have Opinions of You Without Trying to Change Them
Not everyone will understand you, and that’s okay. You don’t need to explain yourself to everyone. The right people will get it. Let the rest misunderstand.
3. Embrace That Two Things Can Be True at Once
Maybe you’re not a great friend right now, but you’re trying to be better.
Maybe you’re out of shape, but that doesn’t mean you can’t change it.
Maybe you struggle with processing emotions, but you’re working on it.
Growth and imperfection can coexist.
Don’t let the gap between where you are and where you want to be define your worth.
4. Let Go of the Idea of Right or Wrong
There is no perfect path. Make the best decision for who you are right now. Maybe your perspective will change later, but that doesn’t mean your choice was wrong—it means you evolved.
Authenticity Is a Practice
Authenticity isn’t a destination. It’s not about finally having it all figured out. It’s a daily choice to show up as you are, without shame, without the weight of “I should have.”
It’s peeling back the layers of what you’ve been told to be. It’s examining your habits, thoughts, and beliefs with compassion. It’s allowing yourself to evolve—without guilt.
As Brené Brown says:
“Authenticity is not something we have or don’t have. It’s a practice, a conscious choice of how we want to live.”
So stop searching for yourself in society’s broken rules. Start getting to know the person you already are.
