Authentic Self Examples

The concept of the “authentic self” refers to the true, genuine, and unaltered essence of an individual. It is the core identity that is not shaped by external influences, societal expectations, or the need to conform. The authentic self is often associated with being true to one’s values, beliefs, and desires, regardless of external pressures.

Here are some examples to illustrate the concept of the “authentic self”:

Career Choices: An individual embracing their authentic self might choose a career path that aligns with their true passions and interests, even if it goes against societal expectations or norms. For instance, pursuing a career in the arts instead of a more traditional and financially stable profession.

Personal Relationships: Someone in touch with their authentic self would form relationships based on genuine connection and shared values rather than conforming to societal expectations or pressures. This could involve maintaining friendships that align with personal values rather than succumbing to peer pressure.

Self-Expression: Embracing the authentic self often involves expressing one’s individuality without fear of judgment. This could manifest in various ways, such as unconventional personal style, unique hobbies, or non-mainstream interests.

Decision-Making: Making choices based on personal values and desires rather than external influences is a reflection of authenticity. For example, choosing a lifestyle that resonates with one’s core beliefs, even if it differs from societal norms.

Cultural or Social Identity: Authenticity can also extend to cultural or social identity. An individual might embrace and celebrate their cultural heritage despite external pressures to assimilate into a dominant culture.

Communication Style: Being true to one’s authentic self involves communicating in a way that feels natural, whether it’s being introverted or extroverted, assertive or soft-spoken, rather than adopting a persona to fit in.

Hobbies and Interests: Pursuing hobbies and interests that genuinely bring joy and fulfillment, even if they diverge from popular trends or societal expectations. This could include unconventional or niche hobbies that resonate with personal passions.

Educational Choices: Opting for an educational path that aligns with one’s intrinsic interests and aspirations rather than conforming to familial or societal expectations. This might involve choosing a major or course of study that reflects personal passion rather than solely focusing on potential career outcomes.

Parenting Style: Embracing the authentic self in parenting involves raising children based on one’s genuine beliefs and values rather than adhering strictly to external parenting norms. This might include adopting non-conventional parenting methods that align with personal philosophies.

Spirituality and Beliefs: Choosing and practicing a spiritual or belief system that resonates authentically with an individual, even if it differs from the dominant or expected religious practices in their community.

Fashion Choices: Expressing individual style through clothing choices that reflect personal tastes rather than adhering strictly to current fashion trends. This could involve non-conformist fashion statements that resonate with the individual’s sense of self.

Volunteering and Philanthropy: Engaging in charitable activities or volunteer work that aligns with personal values and passions, rather than conforming to societal expectations or participating in activities solely for recognition.

Technology and Social Media Use: Authenticity can extend to online presence and social media. Choosing to share content and engage in digital spaces in a way that reflects one’s true self, rather than conforming to popular trends or seeking external validation.

Life Goals and Aspirations: Setting life goals and aspirations based on personal values and desires rather than conforming to societal pressures. This could involve unconventional life paths that resonate authentically with an individual’s sense of purpose.

How to Find the Authentic Self

Finding your authentic self is a component of discovering your life purpose. According to Japanese, life purpose or “Ikigai” is the intersection of your passions, skills, societal needs, and viable economic opportunities.

The term “Ikigai” can be loosely translated as “a reason for being” or “a reason to wake up in the morning.” This concept is often represented by the intersection of four elements:

• What brings you joy and fulfillment (your passion): Engaging in activities you love.
• What you excel at (your vocation): Utilizing skills and talents in which you excel. What addresses a need or contributes positively to the world (your mission): Doing something that fulfills a societal need or makes a positive impact.
• What has value in the marketplace (your profession): Skills and activities for which you can be compensated.

Is it possible to fulfill all these criteria? Attaining excellence in all four areas sets a challenging standard that may be unattainable for the majority of individuals.

Birth Chart Insights

In her book, ‘Astrology and the Authentic Self,’ prominent Hellenistic astrologer Demetra George provides insights on how to find the authentic self through the birth chart reading. The birth chart encapsulates an inherent pattern that beckons to be lived. This concept has been further deepened by the well-known astrologer Chani Nicholas in her book, ‘You Were Born for This: Astrology for Radical Self-Acceptance.’

In our book ‘Astro-Ikigai: Discover the Life Purpose Written in Your Birth Chart’, we have expanded on this concept by providing detailed instructions on discerning your life purpose from your birth chart, and, more importantly, guiding you on the necessary steps to bring it into fruition. Our book is available on: Amazon.com Amazon.in Amazon.ca Amazon.au Google Play Apple iBook Store