I invite you to come along on my journey to reconnect with my authentic self! First, let me share a little about myself, though. I’m a spiritual person who enjoys reflective activities, such as reading self-help books, practicing yoga, and listening to smooth jazz. I once enjoyed writing, but conforming to writing styles made me lose interest; I went as far as even pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism. However, I’m not actively using my degree. The reason is because I do not want to build a career within an interest area I no longer enjoy.
So you may be wondering how do I currently earn my living? Well, I serve in a role for an organization where I’m responsible for retaining and recruiting clients. I also oversee the organization’s operations. However, I am currently exploring opportunities that will allow me to be my authentic self at all times. I will discuss further, my thoughts regarding “authentic self” and the workplace, next month. However, this month, join me as I journey to define my authentic self!
During my search to define my “authentic self,” I came across this informative article on gaiam.com. From my understanding, “authenticity” concerning one’s identity was identified about 13 years ago. Psychologists Brian Goldman and Michael Kernis defined authenticity as “the unimpeded operation of one’s true or core self.“ Authenticity requires self-knowledge and self-awareness. Furthermore, authentic people are accountable, connected to their values and desires, as well as accept their strengths and weaknesses. So how does that compare with my definition?
Well, to me, being my authentic self means to operate in a way that is true to the essence of who I am and not to society’s expectations of me. I believe we may be a little lost in who we are. Our family members, friends, social institutions, and the media primarily shape our beliefs, our life goals, and our expectations of ourselves. Think about it, have you or someone you know ever set a goal that deep down was not really what you wanted to do? Perhaps you did something because you believe it’s what you are “supposed” to do? I know I have. So, when I reflect and think about the areas of life I am trying to grow, my perception of my authentic self seems to align with the definition I’ve already gathered.
My journey to reconnect with my authentic self involves deep reflection. So, let me take a step back and share a bit of my personal history. For the first eight and a half years of my life, I was an only child who found ways to entertain myself. I was a shy and introverted person; therefore, writing, drawing, and reading were my favorite hobbies. I found a release in these activities because they allowed me to demonstrate what I realize now, is my authentic self.
When I was an impressionable teenager at the onset of my high school years, my mom, younger sister, and I moved to the Midwest from the West Coast to be near family. During this time, I found myself influenced by family, friends, co-workers, bosses, teachers, and experiences.
Through all this shaping and molding, I lost a bit of my authenticity, as I tried to fit in and survive. I also felt incompatible with my midwest city. Feeling so further disconnected me from my essence, so I immediately made a vow to myself to move after I graduated college. In between this time, I discovered that during my visits back to the West Coast, I felt a sense of familiarity and belonging. This feeling helped me realize my true self is back in the West. So finally, two and a half years ago, I achieved my goal and moved (to the Southwest). During the first six months in my new city, I had a lot of time to reflect on my past and spend plenty of time by myself. My journey to seek my authentic self again began at this point.
Throughout life, I made observations of other people making decisions that they thought they were “supposed” to. They may have even felt pressured to do (or not do). More times than not, the result ended in misery. For instance, my friends would marry the wrong person, or even enter marriage without really knowing why they’re doing it (learn more about this in a future article).
Additionally, I watched people finish college with a mountain of debt and yet not work in their field of study. I also observed people making large purchases, only to work excessively to afford those purchases. As I grew older, this helped me realize that I did not want to continue making similar life decisions. So, I started to analyze my life based on who I am, which is how I know it is time to reconnect with my authentic self!
Did you find this blog post helpful? If so, share it with a friend! Also, I welcome you back to continue this 3 part series on my journey to my authentic self. If you, too, are trying to reconnect with your authentic self, come back next month, where I will discuss the challenges of being my authentic self at work. Additionally, check out a unique way of (re)connecting with your authentic self here.
Furthermore, if you are interested in interacting with me and my journey, follow me on Instagram @aquarian_busy_b.
~ Aquarian
My frequency is shifting, which has awakened my inner goddess. Divine guidance is now leading my journey. Therefore, I am sharing my knowledge and life experiences.
I hope you find the information I provide on this site useful and inspiring. I also hope you will be able to discover your bliss. Following your dreams is a huge part of elevating your joy. Each day you live in that elevation, brings you closer to a living a divinely elevated life of happiness.
If you would like to rise with me, by being an active participant, I invite you to contact me via social media or email. Additionally, if you would like to receive updates when I post, feel free to subscribe below.
Let’s encourage each other and choose to live our best lives in light, love, and happiness!
***No information provided on this site is intended to serve as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment***
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