We have an inherent need to be accepted and valued by our peers. Sometimes, this desire can lead to a reluctance to show our authentic selves. This fear stems from a lack of self-confidence that our true personality and authenticity may be unacceptable or undesirable to others.

Authenticity simply means that we are true to our personality, values and spirit, regardless of the pressure that we're under to act otherwise. We ought to be honest with ourselves and with others. We should take responsibility for our own mistakes. Our values, ideals and actions should align no matter what the circumstances are.

Being authentic means what we say in life aligns with our actions. Our authentic self goes beyond what we do for a living, what possessions we own or who we are to someone who we often interact with. It is who we are at the deepest bottom of our hearts untouched by other forces.

We often struggle to be authentic due to lack of self-esteem, fear of judgment and our social desire to be liked by others even if we do not like ourselves. Past experiences from childhood can mistakenly teach us sometimes that it is not safe to be genuine. Self-protection, fear and shame come on and off when we are trying........

© The Korea Times