“We just are who we are and we have to stop pretending that we’re something else.” –Annie Leib, MBA

What does it mean to be authentic?

Authentic is often one of those words that gets tossed around like a badge of honor.  As in, if you STATE that you are authentic then you somehow increase your amount of authenticity.

The dictionary definition of the word authentic is:

Of undisputed origin; genuine

So how do you know if you are truly showing up as you, in your authentic power?  Are you really being true to yourself or are you influenced by external factors?  Or perhaps you find yourself acting and doing out of the “shoulds”, which certainly decreases your intended authentic action.

Here are 5 ways to put your authenticity to the test and make sure you are really showing up as YOU every single day.

Define your core values

Having a sense of your values is one of the best ways to really channel your authenticity.  But sometimes we forget to pay attention to what our true values are.  To start to identify your core values, start with this simple exercise.  Close your eyes and take 4-5 deep, calming breaths.  Do your best to clear your mind and really listen to your inner knowing.  Open your eyes and write down the value words that come to mind.  Examples: Love, Kindness, Empathy, Leadership, Compassion, Curiosity, Open-Minded, etc.  If you are still struggling for some words, check out this list!  After you have made your list pick your top 5 and write them down on a Post It note, or in your journal and keep them in front of you at all times!

Act in alignment

Now that you have identified your core values, make sure that you choose your actions accordingly.  Aligning your actions with your core values will help you stay in a space of authenticity because you will make choices that truly resonate with you.  If you find yourself confronted with a situation that is out of alignment with your core values, consider a different options to steer yourself back on course.

Set boundaries

Boundaries can be really hard to set, but they are essential if you want be your most authentic self.  You don’t fit into a box and you don’t meet everyone’s expectations.  And that is perfectly fine!  If you did, how would you really be true to you?  When you set boundaries both with people and experiences (i.e. saying NO when necessary) you act in your authentic power and you empower yourself to be the truest version of you.

Be unapologetic

News flash!  There is no one like you, and you are like no one else!  So why would you think you would act, dress, or behave as anyone other than yourself?  Because you’re human is why!  But here’s the thing… when you are being authentic, you must act unapologetically like YOU.  And here’s the great news!  Your vibe attracts your tribe…so you will align better with those in your life.  And for those who just don’t get you… that’s totally fine.  Move on and let them shine in their own way.

Have grace with yourself

Grace and self-compassion are key when it comes to being authentic.  You will mess up.  You will make mistakes.  You will hurt others and you will get hurt.  But all of that is part of life.  This beautiful, messy existence we all get the chance to enjoy is just part of the journey!  When you allow yourself to BE and you allow yourself to show up as YOU, your authenticity prevails.

In Conclusion

At the end of the day, living in a state of authenticity is one of the best ways you can practice self-care and self-love.  And once you discover the beauty of what life looks like from a place of the most badass, SASSY AF, unapologetic, version of yourself, there is no going back!

As Annie Leib recently stated in our chat on The Real Meaning of Authenticity, “I am so empowered when I allow things to be.”

This is your time to shine and empower yourself!  Never question your authenticity!  You deserve to show up as you, exactly as you are.

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Connect with Annie Leib, MBA on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annieleibmba/ or on her website: https://annieleib.com/