Know Thyself. Be Thyself
Have you ever noticed that there are some people who just seem to shine really brightly? They attract people to them and they have a charisma that is magnetizing and makes you take notice? What is it that they have, that others don’t?
I don’t know what the magic formula is. But what I have noticed with the guests I’ve interviewed for my podcast is that the ones who seem to shine brightest have two characteristics. Not only have they done the difficult work of inner reflection, uncovering all parts of themselves, the good and the not so pleasant, but in addition they have come to accept who they are completely, unapologetically, and compassionately. They have come to know themselves so they can truly be themselves: the people God created them to be.
I think we can sometimes shy away from doing this inner work, what I call mirror work, because it doesn’t always feel so good. And we are wired to avoid pain. The thing is that when we face ourselves with loving compassion, when we get to know ourselves on a whole new level, when we face our dark side and see that it doesn’t cause the world to stop turning then we can begin to shed our camouflage and show up authentically. Being okay with who you are and letting the world see your unique beauty is liberating.
I’m a big fan of journaling daily to create this kind of relationship with myself. I’m sure there are other ways to do this. What practices have you used that allow you to show up more authentically? What practices could you start to use to get to know yourself better?
Patricia Brooks is a life experiences coach, speaker, and the author of Growing Bold: How to Overcome Fear, Build Confidence, and Love the Life you Live. She is the host of the Discovering Courage Podcast where each week she explores how ordinary people have managed to live extraordinary lives. Patricia is currently living in France, pursuing her dreams.
Photo credit: Brooke Cagle