Living Authentically: 5 Things I've Learned Along The Way

​When you're not living your authentic self, you will always seek validation from those around you. Decision-making will become something you dread. In the back of your mind, you will keep second-guessing yourself, which will eventually lead to anxiety. 

Growing up, I didn't have a voice when I disagreed with someone. My opinion was never an option. To this day, those same adults tell people I didn't know how to take correct criticism as a child. And for a long time, I would agree to keep the peace. I became accustomed to someone else telling me what was best for me. I wasted a lot of time and missed great opportunities.

So, when I hit a certain age, living authentically became top priority on my to-do list. I chose to live my truth and to stop looking for validation from anyone. Which is why I've decided to share five (of many) things I've learned along the way to self-discovery. I pray this gives you the confidence on your journey to live authentically.    

1. To Embrace Discomfort

​​​I have come to embrace being uncomfortable. I used to fight like a cat going to water to avoid it. As soon as I started making positive changes in my life, that old awkward feeling showed up, sending me back to my comfort -zone. Even if my comfort- zone was affecting me physically and mentally. By embracing discomfort, I was committing to endure short-term unease for long-term fulfillment. 

Stepping out of my comfort zone pushed me to confront my fears and old patterns. To explore new possibilities that might otherwise been untapped. Embracing discomfort has opened up a whole new outlook on life. Revealing aspects of my personality and potential that I didn't know I had. It has made me stronger in areas where I thought I was weak. ​It's an essential trait for maintaining authenticity in our constantly changing world.

 Ultimately, the benefit of discomfort is the transforming power it holds, enabling you to break free from limitations and live a life that genuinely reflects who you are.

2. Never Lower My Standards

High standards are crucial for living authentically. They're the foundation for a life that reflects your values and principles. For me, they have guided my decisions, behaviors, and interactions. Making sure that I remain true to who I am in all circumstances.

​By setting and upholding my standards, I've created a clear framework for what I accept and reject. It has empowered me to make choices that align with my beliefs. Doing this has enhanced my self-respect and attracts relationships and opportunities that resonate with my authentic self.

Not lowering my standards allowed me to safeguard myself against external pressures and influences, helping me to stay focused. It's a declaration of my worth and a commitment to living a life that honors my true identity.

3. Not To Devalue Myself

The importance of not devaluing yourself cannot be overstated. When I recognized and knew my worth, I set the bar high for every area of my life. Learning to value myself allowed me to see all my strengths, embrace my imperfections, and understand that I deserved respect and kindness.

By having self-respect I show others how to treat me. I become more aware of my self-worth. That made me more adamant about achieving my goals, making decisions that align with my values, and resisting anything that can jeopardize my happiness.

​No matter who you are, remember, that self-worth is not about other people's values; it's about recognizing your values and refusing to settle for less than you deserve.

4. Trust The Process

​​​Trusting the process is essential for long-term transformation. Which can be filled with challenges, setbacks, and sometimes doubt. It's through these experiences that my self-worth arose. Trusting the process also meant that I had to have faith in my ability to learn and evolve, even when I didn't see immediate results. ​

​By being patient and persistent, I allow myself to fully be dedicated to the learning process. By doing so, I gain valuable insight and gained resilience. I had to learn to be kind to myself because I was (and still am) allowing myself to grow into the woman I'm created to be. Understanding that in order to do so meant I had to know, that every step, no matter how small, is a crucial part of my journey.

​Remember, when you trust the process, you open yourself up to your fullest potential.

5. To Say No

​​Saying no is powerful. It sets boundaries that allow you to prioritize your life over the demands and expectations of others.

​ By saying no (when necessary), I preserve my energy, reduce stress, and prevent burnout. There were things I went through in my past that I did not have to. I know now, that by communicating my needs and limits to others lets them know how I expect to be treated. 

Since I have been on this road to self-awareness, saying no has enabled me to make choices that align with my true self and avoid the compromises that clouded my sense of identity. It creates a space for a more meaningful, authentic life.

 In conclusion

​​In conclusion, living authentically requires a deep commitment to self-awareness, self-respect, and decision-making. By recognizing my worth, trusting the process, embracing discomfort, and upholding high standards, I pave the way for a life that reflects me. Living by these principles allow me to live my life with confidence and ensure that I remain true to myself.

Authenticity is not about perfection; it is about living in alignment with your values and becoming the best version of yourself.