Authentic is more than just a buzzword, it’s a game-changer. In a world filled with curated social media feeds and surface-level interactions, being true to yourself has never been more important. Last year, 2024, showed us just how much authenticity matters. It was a theme that kept coming up in conversations, work, and even personal growth. If you’ve ever felt stuck, disconnected, or just plain exhausted trying to meet others’ expectations, this is for you.

Let’s break this down because authenticity isn’t just a trendy word. It’s deeply tied to who we are and how we show up in the world. If you’ve ever felt disconnected, betrayed, or even uneasy about how someone presents themselves, chances are you’ve brushed up against inauthenticity. And if that bugs you as much as it bugs me, it’s worth asking: How authentic am I, really?

What Does It Mean to Be Authentic?

At its core, authenticity is about being true to who you are. But that’s easier said than done. Life pulls us in a million directions, and sometimes we find ourselves putting on a persona to meet expectations – whether they’re societal, professional, or even self-imposed. Think about it: How often do you act in a way you think others want you to, instead of just being yourself?

This isn’t just about being “real” with others. It’s about alignment: how you feel inside versus how you show up outside. When there’s a disconnect, it can leave you feeling stuck, frustrated, or even exhausted. For me, 2024 was a year of reckoning with these feelings, and it pushed me to dive deep into what authenticity means in both life and business.

Why Authenticity Matters in Our World Today

We live in a curated world. For example, social media often shows polished versions of people’s lives. It’s not necessarily fake, but it’s not always the full truth either. This constant exposure to curated content has made authenticity a rare and highly sought-after trait. When we sense someone’s genuine, it draws us in because, deep down, we’re all craving real connections.

As a photographer and a coach, I’ve seen how authenticity (or the lack of it) plays out. In photography, when someone isn’t being their true self, it’s obvious in the pictures. And in coaching, inauthenticity shows up in how people describe their work, their goals, and even their struggles. It’s a universal challenge, but it’s one we can tackle together.

The Two Types of Inauthenticity

Discovering the root of your inauthenticity can unlock a clearer understanding of who you are and set the foundation for genuine growth. Here are 2 types of inauthenticity to watch out for: 

• Not Knowing Who You Are

Some people feel disconnected from their true selves. Maybe they’ve never taken the time to explore what makes them unique. Maybe life has thrown so many curveballs that they’ve lost touch with their values. This kind of inauthenticity isn’t malicious; it’s just the result of uncertainty. If this sounds like you, don’t worry. This phase can actually be exciting. It’s a chance to be curious, explore, and figure out who you really are.

• Knowing Who You Are, But Not Acting Like It

This one’s tougher. It happens when you know your values, passions, and strengths but choose to suppress them. Why? Maybe you’re trying to fit in or meet expectations. Maybe you’re afraid of being judged. This kind of inauthenticity is exhausting because it takes so much effort to maintain a facade.

How Inauthenticity Affects Us

When we fail to live authentically, the disconnect between who we are and how we present ourselves impacts not just our happiness but also our relationships and overall mental health.

When we’re not authentic, it impacts our mental and emotional well-being. It can:

• Create a sense of stagnation.
• Make us feel disconnected from ourselves and others.
• Leave us frustrated and unfulfilled.
• Cause anxiety because we’re constantly managing how others perceive us.

It’s exhausting, right? The good news is there’s a way out.

Steps to Embrace Authenticity

Reclaiming authenticity is a process that involves identifying what truly matters to you, aligning your actions with those values, and embracing your unique path with confidence.

• Identify Your Values

Your values are the foundation of your authenticity. They guide your decisions, relationships, and work. Ask yourself: What matters most to me? What lights me up? What are the non-negotiables in my life? Your values might include things like adventure, integrity, curiosity, or community. Once you know your values, let them guide your choices.

• Align Your Actions with Your Values

Look at how you’re showing up in different areas of your life. Are your actions aligned with your values? For example, if one of your values is creativity, but your work feels stifling, it’s time to make a change. Authenticity isn’t just about knowing your values; it’s about living them.

• Set Boundaries

Boundaries are a natural extension of your values. If something doesn’t align with what you stand for, it’s okay to say no. In fact, it’s necessary. Boundaries protect your energy and keep you from slipping into inauthenticity.

• Embrace Vulnerability

Being authentic often requires being vulnerable. It means showing up as you are, flaws and all. It’s scary, but it’s also freeing. When you’re vulnerable, you invite deeper connections with others.

• Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

Comparison is the thief of authenticity. Remember, no one else has your experiences, values, or perspective. Instead of looking at what others are doing, focus on what feels true for you.

Authenticity in Business

If you’re an entrepreneur or a creative, authenticity is crucial for building trust with your audience. People can sense when you’re genuine, and that’s what draws them to you. Here are a few tips:

• Showcase work that reflects your style and values. Don’t post something just because you think it’s what people want to see.
• Share stories that resonate with your audience and align with your brand.
• Be consistent. Whether you’re talking to a client, posting on social media, or updating your website, let your true self shine through.

The Payoff of Authenticity

Authenticity isn’t just about feeling good; it’s about creating a life that feels aligned and meaningful. When you stop wasting energy on being someone you’re not, you open the door to stronger connections, clearer decisions, and a deeper sense of fulfillment. Whether in your personal relationships or your work, showing up as your true self makes everything more sustainable and rewarding. This is what I’ve seen time and again in my own journey and with my clients – authenticity leads to lasting, meaningful impact.

When you embrace authenticity, life gets easier. You’re no longer wasting energy trying to be someone you’re not. Instead, you’re focused on showing up as the best version of yourself. 

Moving Forward in 2025

Let’s make 2025 the year we truly embody authenticity. It starts with understanding who you are, embracing your values, and showing up in a way that feels right for you. If you’re struggling with this, know that you’re not alone. It’s a journey, but it’s one worth taking.

If this struck a chord with you, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s connect, whether it’s through email or social media, I’m here to support you as you navigate your path to authenticity. Let’s do this together. Here’s to a beautiful, authentic 2025!

CONNECT WITH BOBBI:

Follow: 

@tiltandshiftpodcast

@barbarichphoto

@documentaryfamilyphoto

Learn more about coaching and mentoring at bobbibeducation.com.