There are many interpretations of authenticity on the internet. Without addressing variations on the word, this post refers to perceived authenticity—how genuine or real we consistently perceive ourselves, whether alone or interacting with others.

Perceived authenticity is about the sense of self, not feelings in general. Everyone has at least short-lived feelings that seem inauthentic, particularly under stress and with low physical resources.

Authenticity means more than familiarity—how we’re used to thinking, feeling, and behaving. We’re used to feeling tired at night, but tiredness has nothing to do with an authentic sense of self.

Authenticity means more than acting in ways that make you feel good. Indeed, authenticity feels bad at the funeral of a loved one.

Authenticity is about your important values, not tastes, preferences, or temporary feelings. It's a combination of thinking, feeling, and behaving according to what you deeply perceive yourself to be and what you long to be, independent of what other people think........

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