Learning to Tell the Truth and Be Authentic

You never lie, right?  Me either!

TELLING THE TRUTH

The first thing I did was tell the truth.  I would be honest, whether it was giving an opinion, talking to myself, or sharing with others. By telling the truth, I developed positive feelings towards myself. I felt at peace. I trusted myself and I felt more confident. I also felt closer to those around me.

SELF-HONESTY

I also wanted to be honest with myself. I wasn’t going to pretend to be someone I wasn’t. I was going to be myself and be proud of who I was. I was going to be true to myself and others. 

Whether it was figuring out what clothes I like to wear, admitting I don't like wearing jewelry, or discovering other truths, I was determined to be me. I was going, to be honest with myself and others.

SELF-EXPRESSION

 I wasn't going to be afraid to express my feelings and opinions. I was going to be true to myself.

SETTING BOUNDARIES

No longer influenced by others, I set boundaries for my time and activities. This was a relief because I no longer wasted hours doing things I did not enjoy. I did not have to attend football games, rock shows, or shopping. 

Instead, I focused on activities that I enjoyed, and that would benefit me in the long run. I spent more time reading, writing, and learning new things. I also spent more time outdoors and with friends and family.

I felt more in control of my life and more confident in my decisions. I also felt more productive and content with how I spent my time.

SAYING NO

Saying "no" became easier, and I could better manage my time. I also felt more connected to myself and to the world around me. I had more energy, and I felt more alive. I no longer had to explain myself to people. All I had to do was say, "No." 

I experienced such relief in doing this. I also gained a sense of self-confidence and self-worth. I felt more empowered and in control of my life.

SELF-LOVE

I fostered self-love and self-care in my life. At 50, I thought, "I'm not so terrible after all." I was safe and secure and more in control. I realized I did not have to compare myself to others. I was safe to be myself. I became okay with the fact that not everyone would like me, and that is fine. 

I choose who I spend my time with. It is okay not to mesh with everyone. After all these years, I looked in the mirror. I was becoming happier with who I saw.

"Not being true to myself, it was no wonder I was a mess."