There’s a big difference between being authentic and putting on a show.
Putting on a show means showing what you think they want you to see, rather than who you are. It’s exhausting, isn’t it?
Being authentic gives you the freedom to be yourself – with all your uniqueness.
If you’re tired of acting like a slut and ready for a change, I have some advice for you. Here are eight behaviors you should say goodbye to if you want to stop putting on a show and start embracing your true self. Let’s dive in!
1) Pretending to be someone else
Let’s face it, we’ve all been there. We put on a mask and play a role that we think others expect of us.
This behavior is exhausting and far removed from the true meaning of authenticity
Authenticity isn’t about trying to fit into someone else’s perception of who you should be. It’s about owning your individuality and embracing your true self.
The truth is, that people are drawn to authenticity. They value honesty, openness, and the courage it takes to just be yourself.
So, stop trying to fit into a mold that doesn’t fit you.
Put the action aside, embrace who you are, and let others see your true self. It may seem scary at first, but I assure you it’s liberating.
Remember that being yourself is not only less stressful, it’s also more rewarding in the long run.
2) Overthinking Every Single Interaction
I’ll be honest, this was a big deal for me.
For a long time, I used to replay conversations in my head, scrutinizing every word I said, and every reaction I gave. I was constantly worried about how others would perceive me.
It was mentally exhausting. The pressure of overanalyzing left me feeling exhausted and anxious.
But then, I realized something very important. The energy I was wasting on overthinking could be utilized in a much more positive way—by being present, genuinely connecting with people, and enjoying the interactions.
Once I made this shift, I noticed an immediate change. My conversations became more meaningful and more natural. And the best part? It took a lot less effort.
So trust me, let go of the need to analyze every interaction. It’s not worth the energy or stress. Instead, focus on being present and authentic in your interactions. Trust me, it’s much more rewarding and less stressful.
3) Consistently Agree With Others
Did you know that humans are hardwired to seek agreement in their social interactions? That’s true. We often agree with others, even when we don’t feel the same way, just to avoid conflict or discomfort.
But here’s the problem—not only does this behavior drain us, but it also diminishes our individuality.
Your opinions and perspectives are unique, and sharing them contributes to the diversity of thought and opinion in any interaction.
So, don’t hesitate to respectfully express your views, even if they differ from others. You’ll find that this not only helps solidify your identity but also fosters deeper, more meaningful conversations.
Remember, it’s okay to agree to disagree. It’s not only less stressful, it’s also more authentic.
4) Seek approval for every decision
We all like to feel validated, right? It’s comforting to know that our decisions are supported by the approval of others. However, relying too much on the opinions of others for our own choices can be exhausting and damaging to our self-esteem.
Your life is yours. You are capable of making your own decisions. You don’t need constant validation or approval from others to confirm that your choices are right.
Start trusting yourself more. Trust your judgment, your instincts, and your ability to make good decisions.
Letting go of the constant need for approval will not only save you a lot of energy, it will also boost your self-esteem and help you grow as an individual.
5) Hide Your Vulnerabilities
We all have our fears and vulnerabilities. But we often hide them, fearing that revealing them will make us seem weak or incompetent.
But there’s something profound about being vulnerable. It’s what connects us to others, and what connects us on a deeper level.
Hiding your vulnerabilities can be incredibly exhausting and isolating. It’s like building a wall around yourself, shutting people out when all you really want is connection.
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So don’t be afraid to let your guard down. Share your fears and vulnerabilities. You might be surprised at how many people can empathize with what you’re going through, and offer understanding and support. Letting others see your vulnerabilities doesn’t make you weak, it makes you human. And trust me, being human is less stressful and more fulfilling.
6) Avoid Difficult Conversations
There was a time when I was doing my best to avoid any form of confrontation or difficult conversations. It was easier to sweep issues under the rug than to face them head-on.
However, this approach only led to unresolved issues and built-up resentment. It was like carrying a heavy load all the time.
Eventually, I realized the importance of addressing issues when they came up. Sure, these discussions may be uncomfortable at the moment, but they provide a sense of closure and peace that is far more satisfying.
So, don’t shy away from difficult conversations. Address conflicts and misunderstandings when they arise. It may seem harder in the moment, but in the long run, it’s less stressful and more rewarding.
7) Trying to please everyone
It’s an impossible task. Trying to please everyone all the time. You drain yourself, lose focus on your own needs, and ultimately feel drained and unsatisfied.
The truth is, you can’t be everything to everyone. And that’s okay. It’s also important to prioritize your own needs and well-being.
So, say no when you need to. Set boundaries. Invest time in understanding what you want and what you need.
Letting go of the need to always please others will give you the space to focus on what matters – your happiness and well-being. It’s not only less stressful, but it’s also essential to living a balanced and fulfilling life.
8) Suppress Your True Feelings
Ultimately, your feelings matter. Suppressing your feelings and pushing them aside to maintain appearances does more harm than good. It’s exhausting and can even lead to emotional turmoil.
Your feelings are valid, and they deserve to be acknowledged and expressed. Don’t suppress them to appear a certain way to others.
Expressing your true feelings may seem risky, but it’s an essential part of being authentic. Not only does it lighten your emotional load, it also fosters authentic relationships.
Remember, your feelings matter. Let them be seen, let them be heard. It’s not only less stressful – it’s real, it’s you.
Final Thoughts: Embrace Authenticity
At the heart of it all, the journey to stop keeping up appearances is deeply intertwined with embracing our authenticity.
Authenticity is about embracing and expressing who we truly are. It’s about letting go of the fear of judgment, the pressure to conform, and the need for constant approval.
When we choose to be authentic, we permit ourselves to feel free, to express ourselves openly, and to live authentically. It’s not just liberating; it’s also incredibly rewarding.
Remember, every time we suppress our true selves to fit a mold, we’re ignoring a part of our uniqueness. But when we choose authenticity over pretense, we embrace that uniqueness in all its glory.
As Oscar Wilde famously said, “Be yourself; everyone else is already connected.” It’s a simple yet profound reminder that our true selves are our greatest assets.
So if you’re tired of keeping up appearances, remember that it’s okay to let go. It’s okay to be you. Embrace your authenticity—it’s less stressful and infinitely more fulfilling.
