Is the public version of you the real you?

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.

Kiri Yeaman

I would say that to an extent, yes. It’s the real me, but I definitely don’t think it’s all of me. Read more>>

Lauryn Dunkle

Yes and no. I don’t put out anything that isn’t truthful, but I’ve notice people always have their own interpretation about you based on their own past experiences. And even if their own biases don’t get in the way of them viewing the other, it’s not like they are gonna see the whole picture instantly. There’s so many fascets of an individual. Read more>>

Cody Murphy

I’d like to think so. I’m sure my friends will say the same. Read more>>

Tara Brown

Absolutely! It’s too exhausting to try and be someone I’m not, and I have no desire to do so. I pride myself on being transparent and authentic, especially in my comedy, as I feel like people can relate to that more. Read more>>

Tricia Faulkner

Ha! The public version of me is the real me… I mean… yea you may not see me with the messy hair and mascara scrubbed all across my eye sockets at night, but I am who I say I am. I am goofy, I am honest, I am a seeker of Spirit and love. And I want to help others feel that spirit of love. Read more>>

Troy Donohue

Yes, certainly. Going back to a previous question, I spent so much time trying to mold a fake persona that I couldn’t even stand to fake a smile anymore. Read more>>

Shane Hite

The version of me that people see is definitely authentic! I’ve never known how to be anyone else. I wear my heart on my sleeve and tend to see the glass as half full. I bring a calm and grounding presence that helps others feel at ease, but once I’m comfortable, my fun and outgoing side shines through. Read more>>

Natalie Uhlenhake

Yes, I’d say the public version of me is absolutely real. I think the only way to build a genuine community is by being authentic, so I show up in public and online the same way I do in my everyday life. Read more>>