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.
Liam Slater
Absolutely. It’s too much work being fake. If someone doesn’t like what I’m saying or what I’m doing (and trust me there are A LOT of people who don’t) that’s fine. Being authentically myself is what makes me happy. I didn’t move to Nashville to be an actor. To play some character on stage. Read more>>
your friend juniper
Yes! My whole artist project is meant to feel like you’re hanging with your good friend. I’ve actually been working over the last year to portray more of myself in my content. Read more>>
Maggie Kavanaugh
The public version of the real Maggie Kavanaugh is pretty much the same as the private one — passionate, purpose-driven, and utterly dependent on God’s grace. What people see on stage, on TV, or behind the mic isn’t a performance; it’s a testimony of what God has done in my life. Read more>>
Asjae Reign
Is the public version of me the real me? Absolutely, without a doubt! I’ve always been unapologetically myself, both online and off. I’m real, raw, edgy, and honest, and I always speak my mind. I’ve worked hard to overcome any self-doubt or the urge to shrink in a room full of people. Read more>>
