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.
Rachel Dickman
Yes, but it’s the distilled version. The public me is poised, professional, and purposeful (for the most part). The private me is that too, but with more humor, quirkiness, and cat hair. I believe authenticity is the foundation of great communication, so I don’t try to project something I’m not. I just lead with the genuine parts of myself that inspire trust and connection. Read more>>
Stephania Bonilla Salas
Yes and no. The public version is me just amplified. It’s the version that lives for the music, the crowd, and the moment. But behind the scenes, I’m also someone who’s constantly learning, planning, and growing In real life, I’m actually pretty shy. I don’t really enjoy being in big, open spaces unless it has something to do with music. Read more>>
Sunni T. Connor
It is now. For so long, I pretended to be an image I thought others would accept. But living that way kept me from reaching my full potential. Everything shifted when I chose authenticity. Today, I show up as my true self—fully and unapologetically—because I want to leave behind the real me, not a false version of who I never was. Read more>>
Wayne Riker
Absolutely. I adhere closely to the phrase, ‘be yourself always.’ People will admire you for being humble on stage and off. Always keep even keeled as the persons you meet on the way up will be the same persons you’ll meet on your way back down. Read more>>
