Authenticity, referring to an object, is a guarantee of its authenticity. Referring to a person, on the other hand, it indicates an individual faithful to his basic values and to his own personality. It can take years or decades to be able to discover yourself; however, there are some methods by which we can feel more comfortable with our desires and values.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Finding Your True Self
Step 1. Develop your self-esteem
It is difficult to be true to your personality when you are doubting yourself. If you have any emotional baggage, try to think about it and get rid of it if you can.
Step 2. Reflect on your beliefs
People who are true to themselves are in tune with their own moral values. Try to figure out if there is a possibility that you have embraced the values of a partner, parent or friend without considering the possibility that they are not for you.
Step 3. Take some time for your personal growth
You can do this by taking a class, volunteering, or finding a hobby. Regularly engaging in a hobby that inspires you to improve your skills is a great way to understand what makes you truly happy.
Step 4. Re-evaluate your job if it makes you too unhappy
Most people are able to do a job they hate, but a job that forces you to act differently, or feel uncomfortable all day, won't help you be true to your nature.
Step 5. Distinguish between truth and fiction
In life we can find ourselves playing a role that is assigned to us by others, rather than covering what belongs to us. If you begin to feel uncomfortable in a certain situation, ask yourself if this discomfort comes from the fact that you are being pressured on how you should behave, rather than acting on instinct.
Step 6. Try to find a description that fits you
Many people describe themselves as a father, wife or teacher. Try to describe yourself based on your wishes, hobbies, and outlooks in life, rather than using social roles.
Step 7. Accept your flaws
To be comfortable with yourself you have to accept that you are not perfect. If you know your flaws and strive to prevent them from negatively affecting others or yourself, then you are much more in touch with reality than you might think.
Part 2 of 2: Acting Being True to Yourself
Step 1. Don't wear a mask depending on your role in society
By pretending to be someone who is liked by others, you can help you in your profession to make contacts, but it is highly unlikely that in doing so you will be able to feel really comfortable with people who do not know the real you.
Step 2. Trust yourself
Intuition can lead you to choose friends who complement you. Although a list of pros and cons is still a good way to make big decisions, the choices made by instinct can be subconsciously determined by your moral values.
Step 3. Express yourself
Make your voice heard when you need it. People who are true to themselves are at ease when they have to communicate their thoughts and stand by their reasons.
If you feel uncomfortable communicating, try to improve yourself in this regard. Talk to others, take a class, or join a group that encourages open communication
Step 4. Establish long-term relationships
Build relationships of trust and respect with others. These two values are not established overnight, but succeeding in doing so is gratifying and fulfilling.
Step 5. Have professional and personal goals
Having a role model can give you the confidence to grow and develop.
Step 6. Seek emotional support when you need it
Talk to friends and family regularly. If you need further support, seek the help of a counselor or support group.
Step 7. Get help
Genuine people know how to accept that they are not perfect and ask for help when needed.
Step 8. Don't lie
You can stay true to yourself if you tell a lie or two; however, if lying is a habit for you, you are not following your core values or your intuition.
