Want to know the most authentic person I know?
It’s my son, Zander. He is unapologetically true to himself every single day. He is genuine and real. He lives with such self fulfillment that he’s able to GIVE fully and completely from the heart without holding back.
His “cup” is so intrinsically full that he’s able to congratulate, root for & care for others with true joy and happiness. Zander basically manifests his own happiness, and if you’ve ever met him, or even seen him. You know it’s true!
There is not an ounce of self doubt, or envy. He’s not really worried about comparison, or others being better than him. He just wants to be the best HE can be!
As a 37 year old adult I wish I had more of this!!! Even though Zander is a perfect mirror of authenticity reflecting back, it’s not a natural thought process for me. I’m still learning to embrace living with true authenticity. Which requires self love and acceptance!
Maybe authenticity is easier for children? Before we put on all that “armor” of doing things because we “should” or “shouldn’t”, or to people please, or to fit in, even when it doesn’t align with our soul’s purpose.
Authenticity starts when you set the intention to be genuine and comfortable in your own skin. When you decide to love yourself for who you are, not who you want to be. Even when it feels vulnerable.
When you live with this kind of self-awareness, decisions are made more easily because you are free to choose things that help you move closer to your authentic values. You are able to stand in the presence of your imperfections, because you can accept yourself as you are. You can also embrace and promote your unique talents and abilities without comparison to peers.
When you can stand confidently before a stranger and say — this is who I am, this is where I’ve been, and this is where I’m going… without worrying about outside opinions — that is the magic!!
While evaluating my own life, I think COVID or quarantine rather; has helped shine a light on my path to living with more authenticity.
Quarantine closed a lot of my daily distractions. The new, slower pace of life helped center from a hurried routine, and naturally live more presently without thought or intention.
It simply wiped out a lot of “stuff”. Quarantine taught me to seize and appreciate small, everyday moments that are a true gift. Moments I may have never noticed pre COVID. It also inspired me to “go for it” because why not? because I’m worthy, and because we learned that tomorrow is not guaranteed!
