💌 Authenticity is a natural filter
The courage to stick out like a sore thumb
Thinking about the people I love most makes me smile so hard my cheeks hurt.
It’s because they all have something in common — shameless authenticity. They’re so themselves they’re quite literally irreplaceable. They’re allergic to conformity which makes them stand out. And their energy is so real — where you just know, without question, the things they do and say are aligned with who they truly are.
But authenticity isn’t easy. In a society that sometimes rewards conformity, being fully authentic is an invitation for judgement, projection, and conflict. In contrast, conformity is comfortable.
If you’re like everyone else, you can’t be a target. If you agree with the majority, you’re “safe.” If you follow the trends, you’re “in with the times.” And blending in, going with groupthink, and being a follower — they all protect you from being talked about.
But at what cost?
What about being a trailblazer?
What about being the first to do something new? The first to speak your mind about something controversial. To stand up for yourself and your values against odds. To share your passions despite how obscure. To embrace vulnerability and invite true connection. To feel deeply and let it be known. To show your quirks, your weirdness, your real personality, and stick out like a sore thumb. But a damn happy sore thumb.
To free yourself.
I love authentic people because those are the ones who lead the change. The ones who inspire others to do scary things. Start the trends that others follow. Challenge status quo. Have real influence. They’re the ones people talk about, whether out of respect, admiration, judgement, or hate — but it’s all a sign they’re doing something right.
Because fully authentic people shine so bright it’s blinding, and not everyone can handle it. But that’s the biggest blessing of all.
Authenticity is a natural magnet and filter — to attract those meant for you, and while eliminating those who aren’t.
And this is why the people I love most all have this in common. They’re here to be real, not to fit in.
Be yoself with love,
Meg
P.S. Recorded a raw authentic convo yesterday about authenticity, with one of my fav authentic homies, Jayson. Give ‘er a listen!
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