The Freedom of Authentic Living
There is SO much freedom in living authentically. What does it mean to live authentically, you may ask? Being real with yourself is hard, but necessary if you are going to live authentically. We have to be honest with ourselves first; and then with others, as appropriate. Living from the core of who you are requires spending some time with yourself to really KNOW who you are and what makes you tick. These ten guidelines will help you begin your journey toward experiencing the FREEDOM that comes with living a more authentic life.
Know your purpose. Do you sometimes feel like you are wandering rather aimlessly through life, wondering at times what your purpose is – hoping that you’ll be lucky enough to stumble upon happiness, health and prosperity? Identify your life purpose or mission statement, and you’ll have your own unique compass that will lead you to your true north every time. For example, “I believe I was created according to a Divine design, with a combination of strengths and quirks, to accomplish something for the greater good.”
Know your values. What do you value most? Make a list of your 5 top values. Some examples are security, freedom, family, spiritual development, or learning. As you set your goals for the next phase of your life – check your goals against your values. If the goal doesn’t align with any of your top five values, you may want to reconsider or revise it.
Acknowledge your needs. Unmet can keep you from living authentically. Take care of yourself. Choose not to cling to people, projects, or things that are holding you back or causing you to lose your balance.
Be aware of your self-talk. Are you blocking your potential? Check out your first thoughts when you wake in the morning. Are they supportive, encouraging or positive? Listen to the chatter that goes on in your mind. Pay attention to the negative messages and turn them into positive statements.
Live your passions. Honor those things that make your heart sing. Whatever it is, do more of it.
Live from the inside out. Tap into your inner awareness by regularly reflecting in silence. Breathe deeply to quiet your distracted mind. Meditate or pray. Try to manage your like from the inside out, focusing on “clean living” and nurturing the relationships that are closest to you first.
Honor your strengths. What are your positive traits? What special talents do you have? List three – if you get stuck, as those closest to you to help identify them. Are you imaginative, witty, good with your hands? Find ways to express your authentic self through your strengths.
Take time to play. Give yourself time to recharge doing things you love to do or by just doing nothing.
Count your blessings. Write down everything you are thankful for, keep your list in a journal or post it where you can see it for a little more inspiration. Don’t edit the list!! Include EVERYTHING you can think of, both big and small.
Prioritize relationships. When you are true to who you are, living your purpose and giving of your talents to the world around you, you give back in service what you came to share with others – your spirit – the very core of who you are.
