Have you ever wondered what people mean when they talk about being authentic? Or being their true self?

When I first began awakening to my spiritual side I would hear these words bandied about and wonder what they actually meant. I remember thinking I was my true self - at least I felt that way at the time. What I’ve since discovered is that I was fitting in with the norm of what ‘success’ was considered to be in our society. There were parts of me that showed a flicker of interest in other areas but they were quickly squashed because of the fear of being judged. Those interests were a little bit alternative, and to be honest, barely recognised within myself.

Now I’m starting to discover other parts of me that want to be heard, other parts that I didn’t even know existed but are now coming to light and making me look at my life in a completely different way.

You are probably thinking I wasn’t very switched on through most of my life, but honestly, I really did feel I was being true to myself, just as you probably feel like you have been true to yourself. I think most of us believe this to be the case.

What does being authentic actually mean?

Being authentic is about following that inner calling. It can be that thing that you’ve always wanted to do - the one where you think “If I win Lotto I’m going to spend all my time doing that”. Or, as in my case, it can be an undiscovered calling that only comes to light when you start following the breadcrumbs of your interests. Each breadcrumb will lead you to the next breadcrumb and slowly everything unfolds until you find yourself interested in something you may not have considered before.

Authenticity also means not saying yes when you are being asked to do something that doesn’t feel right to you, or something you really don’t want to do. I recently read about a woman who was still acting as Treasurer for her local Plunket group, even though her children were now in their 20’s and she didn’t actually enjoy it. She was doing it because she felt obliged. That is not being authentic.

Being authentic is following your heart, saying what you mean, and living life purposefully. Staying in a job we don’t enjoy is not being authentic. Authenticity makes your soul sing. If you’ve realised there is something lacking in your life, now would be a good time to start thinking about what makes you truly happy and what steps you could take to explore that a little bit more.

Being authentic is not allowing the judgements of others to affect your choices. Don’t be put off if your nearest and dearest poo poo your calling. They are on their own journey and may not fully understand why this is important to you. Persevere and stand in your power. It is your choice to follow your heart and not their position to tell you otherwise. Just remember that when they start following their own authenticity, you will need to remain judgement free as well.

How do you know when you’re being authentic?

When you are on the right path, and truly being you, it just feels right. You can’t imagine doing anything else. In fact you can’t imagine anything you would rather be doing. There is excitement about the possibilities and opportunities that are coming up and there is a level of joy that may not have been present in your life for quite some time.

Obstacles are just challenges to be overcome, instead of the daunting barriers they have appeared to be in the past. In fact, sometimes they even become the thing that gives you the biggest sense of achievement. New connections are made with people on a similar journey and you find yourself moving in different circles than you may have in the past. This is exciting and you’ll be constantly looking forward with curiosity as to what is next.

You may also find yourself devouring books, videos and e-learning in new areas. There is a constant desire to learn more and explore areas that resonate with you.

Take your time

It may take some time to find your authentic self, if you haven’t already. Be prepared to try several things before being able to narrow it down into what it is that your heart truly wants. This is not a bad thing as it gives you exposure and connections which lead you to the next breadcrumb, and you can follow those breadcrumbs where ever your heart takes it.

Do not be disheartened if you seem to be taking a meandering path - that is all part of the journey. Instead celebrate the fact that you are listening to your heart and being authentic, and watch for the synchronicities and coincidences that start occurring in your life.

Have fun on your travels!

Karen