Authenticity Is Socially Risky

Authenticity comes with social risk of disapproval

As we decide what to share and levels of authenticity that feel safe enough in various situations, we know there are costs socially and internally both to keeping quiet and to expressing ourselves authentically.

Bring to mind a situation where you don’t feel you can be fully yourself

Feel that in your body. Assess the pros and cons of expressing yourself more fully. There are no right or wrong answers. Be careful to not shame yourself with shoulds.

Are you in fight/ flight/ freeze/ fawn? Be mindful of your emotional regulation - can you express yourself without being in a fight response?

Whatever course of action you decide to take:

Do a slow motion walk-through with visuals, who is there, what is said?

What support could you bring in for yourself? This includes kindness.

Remain in awareness of breath and body as you reflect on the experience and insights. There is no perfect way to be and express ourselves in the world.

Last week we explored fitting in and not fitting in, subcultures and the risk of authenticity. Click here for the video replay. Last week’s blog Risking Authenticity.

Join us in our Sunday free community class as we risk and practice authenticity together.