Unlock your Best Self: Embrace Clarity and Authenticity

I’ve written about authenticity before. I’ve spoken about it. I coach on the prerequisite that authenticity will be sought and obtained. This is not a new concept that I’m introducing today.

We all know we should be authentic. Keep it real. Stay 100. But again, we stand at the crossroads of what we should do versus what we’re in the habit of doing.

At the very foundation of personal growth, Christian faith, professional fulfillment, and genuine peace and prosperity lie two realities: clarity and authenticity. There is no authenticity without clarity.

The Word of God speaks continually about being clear on the truth of who God is and who we are to Him and through Him. Through this clarity and acceptance of the truth, we are liberated to live authentically as the children and representatives of the Lord in an adverse world. There is no liberating authenticity without clarity and truth. (See John 8:32, Proverbs 3:5-6, 1 John 1:6-7, and Romans 12:2 for context.)

In the professional space, there is a concept called AAW - Authenticity at Work. This idea suggests that when an employee experiences alignment between their genuine “true selves” and the work they do, unnecessary stress and unhappiness are eliminated, and productivity is enhanced. One can tap into and unleash their potential for unique contribution and greatness for the benefit of the whole. Imagine the types of leaders and managers that emerge from this positive and satisfying relationship between person and work. We need more of this.

From a personal growth perspective, we are familiar with thought leaders like Brené Brown, Steve Maraboli, and Jim Rohn. They teach that there is no self-awareness, alignment, liberation, or unleashing of potential without clarity and authenticity.

"Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are." ~ Brené Brown.

"Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It’s about the choice to show up and be real. The choice, to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen." ~ Steve Maraboli.

"Clarity is power. The more clear you are about what you want, the more likely you are to achieve it." ~ Jim Rohn.

I’m not speaking to my sisters who are living stress-free lives. No anxiety about the present or future. No uncertainty about the path they’re walking on. No struggles with self-confidence about who they are, where they’re coming from, and where they hope to go. Not the woman who is fully in control of her emotions, thoughts, and actions. She is super productive and consistent, making bomb decisions on the regular. She stays motivated and authentic in all rooms and environments. Zero struggles with regret, burnout, or inner/outer conflict.

She is not me.

She is probably not you if you’re connected to me. I speak to those who are confused and uncertain. Stressed and anxious. Conflicted about being authentic and aligned with God’s purpose and their true selves. Not quite sure how to be secure in self and purpose. Desperately seeking fulfillment and peace. Needing motivation, energy, and clarity. Constantly weaving in and out of burnout, depression, anxiety, conflict, drama, and chaos.

I fall somewhere in the middle of the two women. What about you?

This is the imperfectly flawed existence of humanity and womanhood. Even when we feel like we’re unleashing our potential in one area, we may feel like we’re failing in another. That’s why something like a life pie or wheel of life changes regularly. How we feel about where we are in life is subjective - subject to change just like our emotions on the daily. (Try your wheel of life.)

We may feel empowered in our efforts to transform our physical health and growth in one season, yet feel like we’re failing in our relational or professional growth in the same season.

It’s all information to be gained and evaluated. Where are we clear on what needs to be attended to for transformation and empowerment? It is through seeking clarity and authenticity that we become strategic in our approach to becoming our best selves and leading better lives.

Remember, the journey to clarity and authenticity is ongoing. It's not about perfection, but about progress. It’s about making intentional choices every day to align more closely with our true selves and our divine purpose.

When we embrace clarity, we strip away the noise and distractions that cloud our vision. We can then see our path more clearly and understand what steps we need to take next. This clarity brings a sense of direction and purpose, which fuels our motivation and commitment.

Living authentically means being true to who we are, regardless of the pressures or expectations placed upon us. It’s about being honest with ourselves and others and having the courage to live our truth, even when it’s difficult. Authenticity brings a sense of freedom and peace, as we no longer have to pretend or hide our true selves.

Together, clarity and authenticity create a powerful foundation for personal growth and fulfillment. They enable us to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience, knowing that we are on the right path and living in alignment with our values and purpose.

So, take some time this week to reflect on where you can bring more clarity and authenticity into your life. Use the coaching questions provided to guide your reflection and journaling. Remember, this is your journey, and you have the power to shape it with intention and purpose.

Your turn! You know I love a good coaching question! 

• What is one area of your life where you feel uncertain or confused? What information or resources do you need to gain clarity in this area?

• When you think about your ideal life, what does it look like? How does it differ from your current situation?

• What small steps can you take to be more authentic in your daily life?

• Imagine your most authentic self living with complete clarity. What does that look like, and what steps can you take to move toward that vision?

I encourage you to take fifteen minutes or so when you wake up or before you go to bed and journal about these questions. 

As you move forward, know that you are not alone. We are all on this journey together, striving to become our best selves and live our best lives. Let’s support and encourage each other as we navigate this path, and celebrate the progress we make along the way.

I’m here with you, cheering you on every step of the way. Let’s Know. Love. and Be. Strategic. 

Until next time, stay clear, stay authentic, and keep moving forward.

Be encouraged. Be empowered. Choose to be happy. 

Nikki