How can I be my authentic self?

How can I be my authentic self? I absolutely love this TED talk by Caroline McHugh, where she discusses how to be our authentic self. I found it very inspirational, particularly the idea that we all have one true note we are destined to sing.

Caroline points out that we are fantastic at being ourselves when we are young children, and when we are elderly, but in between we become self-conscious and learn to adapt.

I love the concept that there are at least four different versions of us:

1 – Perception is the version that we represent to others, in other words what everybody else thinks of us, or our reputation. It is important to realise that these opinions are as varied as the people who hold them. Having the need for the approval of others is very debilitating, and we should let go of this as soon as possible.

2 – Persona is how we would like other people to think of us. We should ensure this is always evolving, so we become better and better at being our authentic self. Often change occurs after a catastrophic event, so we should challenge ourself to make positive changes at times when we are less vulnerable.

3 – Ego is how we think of ourself, which will vary from positive to negative depending on the situation. For ego to be useful we need to find the stable midpoint where we have a constant sense of self-confidence. It involves developing an inner state of mind that is impervious to what happens to us, or a sense of humility.

4 – Self is the true version that has been present since we were a child. If we can tap into that inner voice, we can become the person we were truly meant to be.

Project 365

I set up this website after deciding that I want to build a more creative life for myself, so I can give up my job and be in control of my own destiny.

I have set myself a goal of publishing an article on my website every day this year, to document my journey from employment to self-employment.

The name I chose was Project 365 because I see this as a year that I have dedicated to learning and self-development, as I countdown to freedom. It started on 1st January 2021, so I have 249 days to go!