“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.”
(The Gifts of Imperfection, Brene Brown, Pg. 50)
Dear Family and Friends,
Cultivating authenticity is not about becoming something other than who you are; instead, it involves us in releasing those patterns of thought, attitudes, and actions that act as barriers to us standing in our truth and power. And by taking up this practice, we develop the courage to be vulnerable to stand in that truth.
Having clarity about our boundaries empowers us to know what is ours to be and do in the world. And until we communicate our boundaries and hold others accountable to them, we cannot expect others to honor them. We may not feel comfortable sharing them because of the beliefs we have. It may feel selfish, or that we are being difficult, or even un-spiritual. But it is still our responsibility.
Letting others know keeps us from being doormats and being “stepped on.” It creates bridges to others by giving them a path to connect with us. It also prevents others from stepping on landmines (our buttons) they didn’t even know existed. Sharing our boundaries invites us to get to know one another better!