Is Authenticity Even Possible?

I have written this launch post for our June series: Authentic at least seven times. I keep deleting it. For a recovering perfectionist authenticity is hard. The definition of authentic is real, true & bona fide. It is much more natural for me to be what people need me to be in the moment or play the role they are expecting rather than let myself be genuinely me. Authenticity is a choice that takes work.

In the world of Christian lingo I would dare say that the word authenticity has become one of “those” words we use and over use. I also see people abusing it as an excuse to say whatever it is they want to say without considering the affects or consequences it may have on others. Things get spewed in the name of “just being real.” Because this is a broken and fallen world the only thing I know to claim as true and real is scripture but I do believe we can make an effort to live genuine lives with Christ as our compass.

So rather than trying to write some poignant post on authenticity which really isn’t my style I am going to do what I do. As a Life Coach I ask questions and those questions lead to discovery. Often times they lead to places of reality. I will ask AND answer but I would love to hear your answers as well. Deal? If you are reading this (which I will know because I can check the stats) then pick at least one question from below and let me know your thoughts.

Let’s learn what authentic can look like together.

1. How would you personally define the word authentic?

For me authentic people are those who are congruent on the inside and outside.

2. When was the last time you felt like you were being authentic? Why?

My husband and I are reading the The Meaning of Marriage by Tim Keller (10 stars) and it is causing some authentic discussions about expectations, hopes and thoughts on how we have perceived our marriage but also on who we want to be as married people. I have had to take some deep breathes before certain things have come out of my mouth knowing that once they come out they are on the table and I can’t take them back. It has been hard and good all at the same time.

3. When was the last time you felt inauthentic? Why?

We were at a WHOLE family gathering for my husbands family recently (45+ people) and I am sure I smiled and said “life is a great” more than is reality. They are a family of extroverts and this introvert really just wanted to be taking a nap and curled up watching a movie while someone else has their eyes on my kiddos. But there are times when it is polite to others to put on a happy face.

4. Who is an example of authenticity in your real life? 

I thankfully have lots but the one coming to mind as I write this is my aunt. Growing up she was my IT girl. I wanted to be just like here when I grew up. She drove a convertible, lived at the beach, drank TAB as her morning beverage of choice and danced around her house to loud music. She has recently been diagnosed with a rare case of breast cancer, MD Anderson has never seen anything like it. She has a son in law school and plenty of life to be lived but she is just content as can be to go to heaven. Her joy in the hard places is contagious and bona fide. I am thankful for her continued example of what it means to live life to the fullest and she remains my IT girl.

Tag! You’re it!!