Authenticity

Definition: of undisputed origin; genuine.

/ôTHenˈtisədē/, noun

In a sentence: “we questioned the authenticity of the narrative”

Synonyms: genuine, true, bonafide, legitimate, veritable, original, unique,

Significance: Authenticity is liberation of the self at the depths. Afterall, it takes courage to be authentic in a world where we are molded from birth to comport ourselves in certain ways and beliefs. We are taught to wear certain clothes, to act in certain ways, to hold certain titles, to conform to social norms, to get married, to have children, to pay a mortgage, to get a job, to live the standard life. In our authenticity, we find the courage to forge our own way in life and become more of our unique, original, selves with each obstacle we encounter. In our authenticity we come to know our strengths and weaknesses, and we learn to adapt and use our traits to work for us, not against us. Authenticity lends itself to self-acceptance, which is another sign of a highly elevated human being. In our authenticity we are kind and compassionate with ourselves. We don’t mar or defile our bodies. We are authentic state we are more apt to live in a spontaneous, fearless, manner. In our authenticity we are not overly preoccupied with our image or our superficial self. Our superficial appearance isn’t the focus, but rather the all-encompassing whole of ourselves takes precedence. Authenticity allows us to be true to ourselves. When we are true to ourselves, we aren’t rigid, rather, we are apt to flow through life, accept changes, and adapt. In our authenticity, we are less likely to conform to societal standards. Naturally, authenticity feeds spontaneity. When we live in a spontaneous manner, we live in the moment. In the moment we are forced to think and feel on the spot, making a higher-than-average number of in-the-moment decisions. This can often lead to proclivities, good decisions, and bad decisions. The more chances we take, the higher the odds that we will experience many things; meet many people, make mistakes, grow, evolve, and develop a greater perspective about the depth, breadth and complexity of ourselves and humanity. In this understanding we develop even more authenticity which is rendered as an overall state of inner peace and self-awareness. When we are deeply authentic then we have a higher chance of self-accepting ourselves at the very core of our being. Authenticity is the counterpart to self-acceptance, compassion, and love.

Words to live by: “To be authentic, we must cultivate the courage to be imperfect—and vulnerable. We have to believe that we are fundamentally worthy of love and acceptance, just as we are. I’ve learned that there is no better way to invite more grace, gratitude and joy into our lives than by mindfully practicing authenticity.”-Brene Brown