Have you ever regretted not speaking up on something that mattered to you, worried about being judged or disliked? Maybe you held back a part of yourself in a relationship because you feared rejection. Or you didn’t go after a dream because of your family’s disapproval. These fears can keep you from an authentic life, slowly eroding your self-worth and keeping you stuck in mediocrity.
Conversely, each time you dared to stand up for yourself and be who you truly are, you felt good about yourself. To live an authentic life is to enjoy inner calm, self-acceptance, deeper relationships, and a sense of fulfillment. Moreover, as we live authentically, we inspire others to do the same, to embrace their own truths, which in turn spreads courage and honesty.
What is an Authentic Life?
Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung once said, “Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” He reminds us that when we look inward, we gain awareness of who we are: our passions, strengths, weaknesses, fears, and desires. Truly knowing ourselves and embracing all aspects of who we are—the good and the complex—becomes the foundation for authentic living. We begin to understand what truly makes us happy, the talents and passions that bring life to our existence, and the purpose that gives our days meaning. Yet self-discovery takes courage because it asks us to embrace vulnerability and be self-compassionate when we may not want to face what’s there.
An authentic life is where we live in alignment with who we truly are, our values, passions, and purpose, rather than conforming to outside influences or expectations. Bravery helps unlock authentic living by giving us the strength to honor our real selves.
Here are 7 brave ways you can live more authentically:
1. Speak Your Truth, Even When It’s Uncomfortable
Think about a situation where you didn’t voice your opinion or feelings. Do you still think about it? Courage helps us live with less regret as we express our opinions, emotions, and boundaries. These truth-telling moments allow people to see who we are and give us a stronger sense of self, rather than our shrinking away from what’s important to us.
Of course, we don’t always dare to stand in our truth. However, the next time an opportunity to do so presents itself, take a moment to step back. Think about what truly matters to you in that moment, and consider telling the person why what they said or did doesn’t work for you. Once the moment has passed, you can constantly reevaluate, but there’s a unique power in addressing it right then and there. Speaking up in the present carries more weight and sincerity because you are responding as your authentic self. The immediacy also makes your words more impactful and more challenging to dismiss.
2. Take Aligned Risks
What does it mean to take an aligned risk? Stepping out of your comfort zone when it matches your values leads to self-respect and growth.
For example, if you value creativity and have always wanted to start a business sharing your talent, take a risk to honor your passion. You can start with a side hustle by opening an Etsy store or building your own website on Wix. Don’t wait for the right time, enough money, or the array of other things that hold you back. If it matches what you value, the risk is worthwhile because it can lead to lasting personal fulfillment and even a new career.
3. Let Go of People-Pleasing
Have you ever said yes to someone when you truly wanted to say no? Maybe they caught you off guard, and you didn’t want to let them down or create tension, so you went along with what they asked of you.
It takes courage to move beyond people-pleasing. Each time you do, you’re honoring your time, your energy, and your needs. Instead of seeking approval, you’re choosing self-respect, and that choice, repeated over time, strengthens your sense of worth.
4. Own Your Story
Authentic living means embracing all of who you are—your past mistakes, personal flaws, and unique strengths. It takes more energy to hide who we truly are, whether it’s a past addiction, a failed relationship, our religious beliefs, or identity. We fear that if we reveal our innermost selves, people will not like us or leave us.
Surrendering our defenses opens us to people’s potential judgment, rejection, criticism, and even poor treatment. Feeling vulnerable takes courage, but once we embrace it, there is no need to put on a front. People love us for who we are, and we allow others to share themselves.
5. Set and Enforce Boundaries
Your boundaries protect your time, energy, and integrity. Courage is the force that helps you stick to them. Setting boundaries is healthy and normal. Speaking to the courage it takes, Brene Brown says, “Daring to set boundaries is about the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others.”
Prioritizing self-love is never wrong. Sometimes, even people close to you may take more of your time and energy than they give in return. That’s why it’s important to honor your needs and set healthy boundaries. Unless you take a brave stance for what you need and want, you will be at the mercy of other people’s demands and expectations. Be courageous and choose yourself!
6. Pursue What Truly Matters to You
Going after what truly matters to you is not just a good thing to do; it’s being true to yourself. You are displaying personal integrity by honoring what you want in this one remarkable life. Chris Morley once said, “There is only one success—to be able to spend your life in your own way.”
What better way to live life than on your terms, and it’s never too late to pursue your dream! Let courage guide your choice to walk your own path by taking one small step forward today.
7. Show Up Fully
Every day, courage can manifest in various ways, such as sharing an idea, asking for help, showcasing your talent, or trying something new. These simple acts are how we show up fully in life. Consistent, small, and large courageous acts create an authentic life.
How are you not showing up fully in life? Are you holding back your voice, your gifts, or your true feelings? Consider where in your life you may be holding back, such as in your career, relationships, or personal development. Then, choose one thing to do this week that helps you show up more fully in life.
Conclusion
Authentic living isn’t a destination; it’s a daily choice we make to honor our most authentic selves. Courage is what fuels that choice. Start small and practice one of the methods above, and over time, you will notice that life begins to align more closely with your true nature. When that happens, you become naturally more purposeful, happier, and fulfilled. Dive in, be bold, and be your authentic self!
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