"Nothing is more important than reconnecting with your bliss. Nothing is as rich. Nothing is more real." —Deepak Chopra.

We often pretend. We wear different masks to please others, to belong, to get ahead. And too often our authentic self remains hidden. It happens in our families, with friends, in the workplace and at social events.. Yet, research backs it up… people generally are more attracted to authentic people, honest people — people who transparent about who they are.

We also believe there are more genuine connections and stronger relationships when we share our true selves. And it is so much easier and comfortable to be “real.” It’s about owning who we are, sharing our vulnerabilitie and our gifts. None of us is perfect. We need to learn to accept who we are as we “peel the onion” to reveal our own authentic beauty. It is freeing, without the heavy burden of trying to be someone we aren’t.

So ask yourself these questions:

1. Do I stand back afraid to challenge the status quo, as I want to “belong” .

2. Do I always go with the crowd.

3. Do I mimic people who who are populor or powerful?

The answeres may be revealing. Here are some tips to help you be more authentic and reclaim your true self with others:

• Be present, listen and don’t worry about what to say next. Trust who you are.

• Don’t be perfect. Accept yourself and your imperfections and dare to be vulnerable.

• Forgive and love yourself.

• Don’t whine or be negative.

• Don’t judge or gossip about others

• Find genuine not phony connections with people. Listen, be empathetic and find a common thread that reflects your own values..

• Be willing to change and stop unauthentic behaviors.

• Create a daily proactice to integrate mind, body ,spirit … walk, pray, meditate, eat healthy, smile, do a kindness… and you will feel authentic

Authentic people accept life experiences, acknowledging and and feeling their emotions. They don’t deny or repress their feelings

So stay true.. Take off the mask. Own and take pride in all the quirkiness, playfulness, and vulnerabilities that are uniquly yours.

YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!