If you think dealing with issues like worthiness and authenticity and vulnerability are not worthwhile because there are more pressing issues, like the bottom line or attendance or standardized test scores, you are sadly, sadly mistaken. It underpins everything.

Brene Brown

What does it mean to be authentic?

Most of us would agree that it means being true to ourselves. True to our values and beliefs.

Which self are we talking about?

Is it the self that we present to our family, friends, colleagues, clients, boss, the people in our church, temple, or other place of worship?

Who is this “self” who is authentic?

When we experience a disconnect between those worlds, our happiness and sense of well-being decreases. We feel off balance.

Until we bring the divide closer, or better still, eliminate it, we’ll continue feeling like a boat pushed by waves without an anchor.

Values are anchors embedded deep in our consciousness. They guide our thoughts and actions.

If we allow them to.

Being authentic means walking your walk. Talking your talk. And doing all of it with conviction.

Can it be scary sometimes?

You bet.

Do we need to do it?

Without a doubt.