We all think we’re being real—whether in public or in private—but the deeper challenge is questioning whether we truly know our real selves at all. In any case, even when we know ourselves we might face various pressures that push us to fit in or not cause trouble – so even the most well-intentioned person might struggle to always be 100% real in public. Sometimes the simplest questions are actually the most complex. Thankfully, we have some wonderful members of the community who offered to share their thoughts on this challenging question.

Josiah Mendoza

Moving about the world as my authentic self is so important. When I’m acting, I understand I have to put my humanity on the line. The whole point of acting is human connection. If I’m on set and I meet someone and they’re truly their authentic self, it’s so captivating and powerful to see how they stand on their own and the choices they make. Read More>>

Meosha Bean

I believe it can be dangerous to give complete strangers unfettered access to your truest self. Too much access can chip away at your identity, and in some cases, destroy it. Take celebrities, for example Britney Spears grew up under the constant gaze of the world. The private moments most of us hold close became part of the public domain for her. Read More>>

Trissean McDonald

I’ve always strived to be as authentic and transparent whether in complete public view or on social media, to try to be as open and relatable to individuals especially with stories they tell me or vice versa. Unfortunately, I can’t control the narrative of how others perceive me as a person. Read More>>

Danielle Palmer

Yes, the public version of me is the real me. I don’t put on any type of a persona as ‘The Frequency Therapist.’ I genuinely love what I do and am so passionate about everything I talk about in the realm of wellness and health. Read More>>

YUi Ueno

It absolutely is!! In a world that often encourages us to wear different masks—one for work, one for friends, one for family—I’ve found my greatest strength in not having to. The person you meet in a professional setting, the one who’s open, straightforward, and honest, is the exact same person my family and friends know. Read More>>

SABRINA PORCHIA

What you see is who I am. The woman you see building K.Andrea’s Boutique, showing up online, sharing her wins, her lessons, and even her struggles—that’s me, fully and unapologetically. I don’t put on a face for the camera or create a version of myself to impress people. Read More>>

Eddie Mickenberg

It’s a version of me. But, maybe 4% of me. The public version of me is based around my brand, my business, my designs, occasionally let you in my personal life. But, the expectation and assumptions people have of me personally is wild. I use my social platforms, anything I’m published in, public forums as a tool for my business. Read More>>

Allison Nordahl

Definitely not; but I think its a good thing. Don’t get me wrong, I would love to be able to be the real me all the time, but sometimes you need to ‘fake it ’til you make it’. Like everyone else, there are days that I wake up and I feel discouraged or low-spirited. Read More>>