The past few weeks have taught me a lot about the value of experiencing meaningful connections with people. To enjoy these connections, we need to really be present in the moment, honest with others, and true to ourselves. Facing fears and tough times, like missing my dad and starting my own business, have shown me how important it is to stay true to what I value. I’ve deliberately chosen to value growing a little each day, and not just doing things to impress others.
Oftentimes, the stress, negativity, shame and judgment from others can get the best of us and cause us to turn away from how we really feel or want to act. When we decide to be true to who we are, we may lose people around us that may not like the “real us.” That is hard and scary and confusing. But in the end, it’s okay, because then we can have confidence knowing that the people who you are drawn to us, really appreciate us for who wereally are.
“You should “just be yourself” not because it will make you more likeable (it won’t) but because it’s only by being yourself that you’ll find people who like you for who you really are rather than for someone you’re pretending to be.” — Gurwinder Bhogal
There are two ingredients, per se, that have helped me be more present and truly connected with myself so I can show up as my authentic self with others: courage and humility.
Courage
Courage allows us to face fears, take risks in being vulnerable, and share our true selves with others, even when it’s hard or we’re dealing with personal challenges. It empowers us to make genuine connections and stand by our values, even in tough situations.
For myself, it takes courage to ask others for help. It takes courage for me to be honest and let people know that while it may appear like starting your own business is easy, I am scared everyday. I am breaking through self doubt, fear of failure, imposter syndrome and missing my Dad who was my mentor and go to on bad days. Of course we post the good days, but I would be lying if I didn’t share there are a lot of bad days. Without my family, friends and an incredible team, I am not sure I would be able to have the courage to continue to lift myself up. I am so grateful for those around me; they help me, and I hope in return I am helping them reach their true potential everyday!
Humility
Humility, on the other hand, keeps us grounded and open. It helps us listen and value others’ perspectives, recognize our mistakes, and learn from them. Humility means knowing we’re not perfect and being okay with that—it’s about putting the relationship and the other person’s needs at times before our own desire to be right or seen in a certain way.
Together, courage and humility create a strong foundation for relationships that are deep, honest, and truly connected. They enable us to approach each day and each interaction with a sense of openness, growth, and authenticity.
Until you dig deep and face what may be holding you back from creating meaningful connections with yourself and others, I do not believe we can live a truly fulfilling life. The pain to get the the real you is worth the connections on the other end!
