Be Seen Being Your Authentic Self

BE SEEN. I have talked about this pillar in the context of being seen doing things you enjoy, no matter what they are or the assumed target age for that activity is. But there is another aspect to this tenet: authenticity.

Be seen being your authentic self. Believe what you believe, and (so long as your beliefs do not belittle or incite harm towards others) believe it out loud. Be true to yourself even when the people around you are expecting you to go in a different direction than the one your soul is taking you. I understand this is not always possible or physically safe to do. Your survival and safety come first. But if you are in a place in your life where your survival does not depend on going along to get along, exercise the courage to live an authentic life to the best of your ability. Not everyone will understand or approve. That is okay. There will be other people who are willing, if not inspired to walk with you. Authenticity and courage are beautiful to other authentic, courageous people…or to people who aspire to be authentic and courageous.

And yes, authenticity includes being seen doing things you love. Who says you cannot enjoy the same things some younger people, even kids enjoy? If those things make your life more meaningful, be true to yourself and do them!