Why is being authentic so important to our success? Well, when you stop comparing yourself to others and embrace who you truly are meant to be in the world, only then can you live a life of authenticity.

We spend our entire childhood (or maybe even adulthood for some) striving to appease our parents, caretakers and friends. All in the name of conformity and “looking good.”

With only knowing what they know, our families and friends generally provide us with the best support and advice–along with the most heartfelt intentions. Whether it is to obtain that masters degree, secure that well-paying job, or even getting married to having lots children. They really just want the best for you.

Sounds understandable and convincing, right? Not so fast. Here’s the problem:

What works or worked for them, may not necessarily work for you.

You may have spent the time, money and have even taken on an emotional toll convincing yourself to live your entire life according to how someone else believes how you should live.

Remember, this is all based off of their own personal life experiences–not yours. Does this even sound like the kind of life you want to live?

Obviously, this is not a good feeling…and no matter how much we try to force down our true feelings below the surface level, it always ends up bubbling right back up in our faces. For some, it can take years to surface! In the meantime, this can lead to a whole host of problems: Disappointment, anger, frustration, confusion and even an utter resentment for yourself and those around you…all because you choose NOT live in your authenticIty.

Just a quick reminder…it’s YOUR life! You must learn to map out the course to your destiny while being the head pilot of your plane. You have to do what’s right for you, so you can live life on your terms. All you have to do is tap into it. I had to learn this as for myself as well.

So ask yourself this question…What does God really call for me to do? How can I use my gifts, talents and abilities to be a light and give back to the world?

“When we are at our happiest, it is then that we become our most productive, creative and most brilliant version of ourselves.”    -Author Unknown