A year ago, I decided to take a leap of faith toward happiness and authenticity. I walked away from the life I had known for almost a decade and went in search of my authentic self. I was lucky enough to find it and learn some valuable lessons along the way. Because of the positive changes that occurred and my work as a coach – I tend to get the same questions about my journey. People are always asking things like: “What steps did you take to get here?” or “How can I make the same leap of faith and have it succeed?”
This is definitely a tricky question to answer but I do my best to explain that it’s a search for what fills your heart up with love. This can seem like an abstract concept to understand…especially in today’s world. Each day brings a growing pressure from the “shoulds” of the world, an increasing number of expectations and a need to run faster! Because of this, we’ve become a society rooted in “quick fixes” and “step by step instructions to living.”
Unfortunately, those approaches can’t be applied to searching for your authentic self. It takes time to re-discover what makes you truly happy and lights you up inside. In many cases, it may require undoing years of conditioning and reconstructing your life. There’s also no way to give step by step instructions. That would defeat the point! We are all different and need to find ways to show our uniqueness and navigate our amazing journey.
With all of this floating around in your mind – It can be overwhelming to take the first step toward authenticity. Below, are some great ways to get started on your journey!
1.Slow Down: This is by far the largest part of beginning your journey. In today’s world, we are all in a state of constant motion – scheduling every moment of our day with obligations and activities. Being busy has somehow become the new norm and individuals are judged on how much they can squeeze into their day. At first, slowing down can feel excruciating – like something is wrong. But when you push through that discomfort an amazing thing happens – you have the time to examine the motivation behind your choices in life. Are you satisfying the “shoulds” of the world or do you genuinely believe in the decisions you are making?
2.Block Out the Noise: If you examine a single day in your life – how many times have you encountered an expectation that society or those in your immediate circle have placed upon you? We can become suffocated by the opinions of others and what is considered “normal” behavior. Instead of celebrating everyone’s unique qualities – we encounter daily pressure to conform. But what ends up happening is you sacrifice your happiness in order to blend in. Instead, take time to block out the noise (such as social media) that is swirling around you. This will make it much easier to hear yourself think so you’re able to decide what you truly believe!
3.Take Small Steps Toward Change: Once you can hear yourself think and have identified the changes you’d like to make in your life – start small! Many people jump into the deep end when it comes to creating change in their lives. The key is approaching change at a slow and steady pace. Remember, this is a marathon not a sprint and you could be undoing years of inauthentic living! Pick one area of your life you’d like to change and start there. Set small, attainable goals – ones where you’ll see a high rate of return on your emotional investment. For example – can’t stop comparing yourself to others? Start writing a daily list of positive statements about YOU! Review them weekly so you’re able to stay grounded in your uniqueness and authenticity!
4.Forgive Often: There will be times that you stumble, second guess yourself or revert back to old habits. Adjust your thinking so you can see these times as speed bumps and NOT roadblocks. Change is difficult and living authentically – especially if it’s against social norms – can be hard. Treat yourself with compassion. Respect that with each bump in the road comes a learning that can be applied to your journey.
5.Be prepared for greatness: Living an authentic life is not easy. But remember – the reward of waking up each morning, knowing your true motivation behind each decision – is an amazing way to live! Your relationships will change and you will begin to attract those that are open minded and supportive. You’ll feel empowered and inspired to create the life you want!
