Red Deer Physiotherapist Writes:
Authenticity is the buzzword I hear a lot recently. The meaning of it seems as varied as the people who toss it around. Being authentic is possibly the opposite of fake? Surely it can’t be that simplistic. When I meet a person who is authentic, I feel I have seen a glimpse of the real deal. Who they are without the social veneer, the plastic face we too often hide behind. I see someone who is willing to be open to what’s going on around them, clear about their intentions and prepared to face the moment, whatever it may hold. I feel as though I have been met on even ground. Been seen…really seen for who I am and what I bring to the table. What could be more treasured than to be surrounded by these types of people?
On the other hand, how awful to hear the word “authentic” being used as an excuse for rudeness? As a license to spew negativity on a whim. Being authentic should not be synonymous with unfiltered “sharing” of opinions, regardless of the impact on the listener. We’ve somehow become conditioned to feel entitled to voice any and all thoughts and opinions that pop into our collective heads. Demonstrate rage and self-righteous indignation at the drop of the hat, at some perceived injustice to ourselves. A society more interested in tearing down than building up.
There is a need for accountability for our words, our actions. There is nothing wrong with filtering our words to reflect good character and giving pause for thought before we speak.
Believe me when I say, I am a firm believer in each one having a voice. Loud and clear. Standing up for ourselves, our worth, our beliefs, our standards, our choices. This voice should be delivered in a way that respects the value of the message and the ears it falls upon.
Let us define “Authenticity” as being true to ourselves and to the greater good. Let us put our ego aside and go out in the world each day aggressively doing good.
There is a reason why we have two ears and one mouth…
Tammy Twyne
Latest posts by Tammy Twyne (see all)
- The F-Word… - January 23, 2016
- 3 Things Trainers Want You to Know by Holli Mack - October 29, 2015
- Authenticity – The new ‘reality’ of rude? - October 27, 2015
Love this Tammy. I have similar thoughts…while I blab on social media a LOT, I do keep a lot of thoughts and opinions to myself or to voice off line.
I said to my husband recently…do you think there seems to be a lot of bad things happening in the world because there is SO MUCH hate and aggression being spewed out into the universe? What if we just kept even some of the shit to ourselves or to those close to us and only sent out love. THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE WOULD CHANGE, I’m sure of it 😊
Great blog post!
Thank you Brenda for your comment and thoughts! I agree we would be changing the fabric of our world when we change how we talk, how we share our opinions and ideas.
I really appreciate that you took the time to read my post and give me valued feedback! I’ll reply earlier next time! (still working on the rhythm of blogging). Much love, Tammy