Finding my authentic self
One of the things I have always prided myself on is being authentic. To me, that means being “real.” It means my inner self and what I communicate to the outer world match. And it means being true to myself. I live my life trying to be genuine, faithful and trustworthy in each and every interaction. I always have. But wait!
What I didn’t realize until recently, is that weighing 381 pounds masked my authenticity. I couldn’t really project on the outside who I was on the inside as it was buried under, well, layers and layers of fat and a lack of self love. I wasn’t in my equation at all, so really I wasn’t being true to myself. Without even realizing it, I wasn’t authentic. I was hiding behind the weight, the pain and the shame.
It has been a beautiful and eye opening process to discover this, to openly admit it, and to allow my TRUE authentic self to emerge as the pounds were shed. Today, I honor and celebrate my new authentic self. And how good it feels to be real, genuine and out there with it all for the world to see and get to know! The real me.
This inspiring blog by Jennifer Pastiloff came across my email today. It made me smile and inspired me to keep being me and being true to myself. And as I do so, I can attest to what Jennifer says, the right opportunities and the right people do come along. Every day.
If you are looking for a little inspiration yourself today, read “Want to be Successful? Be Authentic.” by Jennifer Pastiloff on one of my favorite blog sites Positively Positive!
P.S. The photo posted today is me in one of me in one of my most happy, shining and authentic moments one year ago on a mountain top in Maine with 7 of my closest friends. They climbed Penobscot Mountain with me to celebrate -150 lbs and my transformation journey. Jean, Karen, Cindy, Betsy, Barb, Kathy and Ann. I love you all with my whole heart!
Hugs.
Lori
Beautiful post 🙂
Very good post on becoming authentic. Yes – lets celebrate authenticity!!
I am so touched and even though we have never met, so so proud of you. Love, jen