selfcare reflection:

your authentic self

Think of a person or group of people you've been with where you have to play a role that is other than your true self. The constant tension between who you really are and what you believe versus the role you are playing in this dynamic can be unhealthy.

Why does it matter to be your authentic self and what does that even mean? Being authentic matters because it can take up a significant amount of mental and emotional energy to live any other way. Not being authentic and true to yourself can cause significant emotional stress that can lead to feeling anxious and depressed.

So, what does it mean to be your authentic self and how do you know if you're heading in the right direction? Here are some guidelines:

You are being authentic when:

- Your decisions align with what feels right in your heart and what you understand is God's will for your life. You stand by your faith and are living your life according to your values and goals, rather than those of other people. (Read Proverbs 3:5-6)

- You are not overly concerned about what others think about you. In essence, you are not trying to be perfect because you know no one is.
Instead, you accept yourself with all your imperfections and recognize that you are being perfected in Christ. (Read Philippians 1:6)

- You relate to people around you genuinely and comfortably even if the situation you are in is uncomfortable. Despite the challenges, you are willing to show vulnerability because you know that through God's grace, you are being strengthened. (Read 2 Corinthians 12:9-12)

Take a moment to reflect on how authentic you're feeling, recognize those stumbling blocks, and take the necessary steps toward becoming the authentic person God has created you to be.

Source: Moodfit www.getmoodfit.com