How can you become more authentic?

Authenticity is a hot topic right now. Many organisations and individuals recognise that being authentic lies at the heart of self-care and emotional integrity. But it’s not always easy—especially after a lifetime of conforming to societal expectations. Breaking those ingrained habits can open the door to greater contentment, meaning, and fulfilment in your life.

What benefits does authenticity bring to you as an individual?

Stronger mental health, clear boundaries, and healthier relationships
Increased self-confidence and inner peace because your actions align with your values
A career or business that truly fits you, allowing you to approach each day with passion and resilience—even through challenges
Attracting like-minded people naturally—authenticity acts like a magnet

How can you benefit from working or building relationships with authentic people?

You always know where you stand
There is mutual respect for boundaries, as authentic people honour their own and yours
A shared passion for supporting and uplifting one another

7 Ways to Start Building Your Authentic Awareness

Authenticity begins with self-awareness. You need to get clear on what you stand for, what fundamentally bothers you, and what you value most. It takes courage to build your confidence and embrace your whole self—including your flaws. And it means being willing to have difficult conversations to stand firm in your beliefs.

Here’s how to start:

Tip 1 – Ask yourself:

Listen inwardly and explore these questions:

What are your core values?
What is your personality like?
What beliefs shape you?
What do you want from your life?
What do you truly need?
Are these needs and wants truly yours, or influenced by others or past conditioning?

Tip 2 – Understand your thoughts.

Tune in to your internal dialogue. Identify thoughts that don’t serve you—those that are fear-driven, negative, or not truly yours. Welcome the thoughts that energise, excite, and motivate you. Explore what drives these positive thoughts and feelings.

Tip 3 – Have courage

Being authentic means showing up as your real self, which is vulnerable. Not everyone will embrace this honesty, but you will find those who genuinely care for you and your vision. Embrace this process and surround yourself with people who help you grow.

Tip 4 – Belonging is not the same as fitting in

True belonging happens when you don’t need to censor or change yourself to be accepted. It takes time and self-awareness to recognise the difference.

Tip 5 – Set boundaries

Have honest, compassionate conversations about your limits. Boundaries are essential for mutual respect in friendships, family, romantic relationships, and work.

Tip 6 – Trust is vital

Trust builds gradually. Be patient and cultivate trust authentically and compassionately. Stand firm if trust is broken; don’t be a pushover.

Tip 7 – Manage your reactions

When hurt or struggling, take time to process your feelings. Reach out to trusted people to talk things through. Don’t ignore or explode—understand your grievance so you can respond authentically.

How Can We Remain Authentic?

Authenticity is an ongoing, conscious practice. To stay true to yourself:

Live in the moment. Focus on the present and listen—to others, your intuition, and your heart.
Be true to yourself. Don’t pretend. But also remember, you don’t always have to say everything on your mind. Check in with your values, personality, and needs before responding.
Accept your complexity and imperfections. Lean into discomfort and awkwardness—it’s a sign of growth and deepening self-acceptance.

Once you embrace authenticity, it can be deeply freeing and cathartic. You’ll find yourself surrounded by people who accept you for who you really are.

Growing Forwards.

So, I invite you to reflect: where do your priorities lie? How can you steer your life to honour those priorities, whatever they may be?

Thank you for taking the time to explore authenticity with me. Remember, this journey is unique for everyone and takes patience, kindness, and courage. Each small step toward being your true self adds up to a life filled with more meaning and connection.

If this article resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts or experiences. Feel free to share in the comments or reach out directly—authentic conversations inspire growth for us all.

Here’s to embracing the real you—because you are enough, exactly as you are.

Welcome to the real you. You’ve got this!

7 Ways to Be More Authentic.