Have you ever paused to reflect on who you truly are beneath the layers of daily routines, expectations, and responsibilities? Who is your ‘authentic self’?
Authenticity—the state of being true to oneself—is fundamental for personal happiness, meaningful relationships, and overall wellbeing.
Living authentically not only reduces stress but also deepens your sense of fulfilment.
Journaling can be an invaluable tool in this journey, helping you connect deeply with your true self.
Here are five powerful questions to guide your reflections.
1. “When do I feel most alive and my authentic self?”
Identifying the moments when you feel truly alive can reveal essential insights about your authentic self. Perhaps it’s during creative pursuits, spending quality time with loved ones, or engaging in activities that align with your passions.
Journaling prompt: Write about recent experiences that made you feel deeply joyful and fulfilled. Notice common themes and consider how you might incorporate more of these moments into your life.
2. “What limiting beliefs am I holding onto?”
Limiting beliefs are the self-imposed barriers that keep you from living authentically. Common examples include “I’m not good enough,” “It’s too late to change,” or “I must always please others.” Acknowledging these beliefs is the first step to challenging them.
Reflection exercise: List three beliefs that hold you back. For each, ask yourself: Where did this belief originate, and how true is it, really?
3. “Who am I trying to impress, and why?”
Many of us subconsciously shape our lives around the expectations of others. Understanding whose approval you’re seeking can help you reclaim your authenticity and live in alignment with your true desires.
Journaling prompt: Reflect on recent decisions you’ve made. Were these choices influenced by the desire to impress or satisfy someone else? If so, who, and why?
Important note: This is not a guilt exercise. There is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answer, here. It’s about being honest with yourself so you can support yourself in making the decisions you truly want to make.
4. “How would I live differently if I didn’t fear judgement?”
The fear of being judged can significantly limit your ability to express your authentic self. Imagine a life free from worry about what others think—how would it look?
Visualisation exercise: Write a short description of your life without fear of judgement. Be specific—what would you do differently, and how would your daily life change?
5. “What core values truly guide my decisions?”
Core values act as internal compasses, guiding your decisions and behaviours. Living in harmony with your values fosters authenticity and contentment.
Values exploration: Identify your top three core values (for example: honesty, kindness, adventure, etc). Reflect on whether your daily actions align with these values and consider changes you could make to better align your life with them.
Need suggestions?: The amazing Brene Brown provides a list of values to help prompt you. We also provide an extensive list in the Story of My Life Journal.
Embracing Your Authentic Self
Regularly reflecting on these questions can lead to profound self-discovery and help you live more authentically.
Remember, authenticity isn’t about perfection—it’s about being genuinely true to yourself, embracing your uniqueness, and allowing yourself to flourish.
Story of My Life Journal is here to support your ongoing journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and meaningful transformation.
Step by step, reflection by reflection, you can become more authentically you.
