What Does 'Be Authentic' Really Mean?
The truth about being authentic on the internet and how you should do it.
I see many people advising others that for them to stand out in the attention economy they have to be authentic.
Authenticity is undoubtedly the new hot thing on social media. And of course, everyone, especially on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, would want a piece upside that comes with a trend.
But do we really know what’s the meaning of that?
What does ‘be authentic’ really mean?
What if I told you that what you know about ‘being authentic’ is wrong?
What is the real ‘be authentic’
Authenticity is not being your true everyday self. It’s the integral version of you. Let’s say something happened. Authenticity is what the integral, principled version of you would do. Yes, it’s about integrity.
Show every part of your life, talk about anything you want, show the world your true everyday self. After all, you’re being yourself, you’re being authentic, right?
That’s when you’re wrong.
Forget about doing all that. It’s just not interesting to people. In fact, we don’t care about your everyday self.
Take internet celebrities for example. You don’t see them being trolls on the internet, even if that’s being ourselves.
We select the integral version of ourselves to show the world – essentially, it’s about how we align our public actions with our internal values and beliefs, even under scrutiny or in challenging situations.
Here’s a way you can frame this:
LeBron James, beyond being one of the greatest basketball players, has used his platform to address social issues, particularly around race and education. His "I PROMISE School," aimed at at-risk children in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, reflects his commitment to using his success to uplift others. His advocacy and activism, whether it’s speaking out against social injustices or investing in the future of his community, demonstrate an integral version of himself that is committed to more than just sports.
Dolly Parton, the beloved country singer, has always been open about her humble beginnings and has continuously incorporated them into her public persona and music. Despite her immense success, she has maintained a strong connection to her roots, which is evident in her extensive philanthropic work focused on literacy and children’s education in rural areas. Her efforts to give back to a community similar to where she grew up exemplify how her public actions resonate deeply with her personal values – showcasing her authenticity.
What does authenticity mean for you?
These examples show that authenticity isn’t merely about being oneself but about being the best version of oneself that is true to one's core values and principles.
For celebrities, whose lives are perpetually in the spotlight, maintaining this authenticity can be challenging but also immensely rewarding.
It not only garners respect from fans and peers but also creates a lasting impact that goes beyond their primary field of work.
Now think for yourself. Who is the authentic you?
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Thanks for being here,
Alvis