Our authenticity is our unique point of difference in a sea of people. Authenticity does not stem from our religion, culture, gender or nationality because all of these are external references.
Our authenticity stems from within us and is a reflection of the enormous imagination of creation. No one was like you, is like you or will ever be like you.
It’s about ‘what makes you, you’ It is what gives you the freedom to express who you truly are and can become.
Steve Jobs said: “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most importantly, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”
Do you think you are authentic? Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you genuinely believe everything you say to your family, team, customers, and stakeholders?
- Do you go deep to explore your motives in what you do at work, at home, in the community, with your friends?
- Have you discovered your innate gift and passion?
- Are you clear as to what is unique about you and your work (your personal and corporate brand)?
- Do you accept yourself unconditionally, imperfections and all?
- Do you walk your talk?
- Are you transparent?
- Do you genuinely care about your team and customers?
- Do you admit to mistakes and apologize as required, (building trust vs. defensiveness)?
- Before embarking on something, do you ask yourself: Does this feel right to me?
Your inner light shines through you when you are credible and trustworthy, and honest enough to admit your limitations. The reality is that even with all your limitations, you are still unique and special.
Embrace who you are, flaws and all. If you try to be someone else, you only become a ‘second-best someone’.
As they say: “Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.”
For more tips on creating an inspired living, read our latest book, ‘What You Seek is Seeking You by Azim Jamal & Brian Tracy