I met Sarah in an online group of entrepreneurs. She was young and eager to embark on a personal journey to embrace her true self online. She gave me a glimpse into the raw perspective she was willing to reveal.

Concerned that she might go overboard, I focused on seeing what she was doing. Her copy seemed to be disconnected from her true self. The way she saw herself versus who she was, confused me.

I asked her about the differences. Sarah felt compelled to present a picture-perfect life on social media. Her posts were carefully curated, showcasing only the happiest moments of her life while concealing her struggles and vulnerabilities.

How she came across online was not the woman I met but a characterization of what she would one day become. I shared how much more powerful her authentic self was and my disappointment in her characterization.

Sarah decided to break free from this facade. She mustered the courage to share a vulnerable post about her battle with anxiety and depression. To her surprise, the response she received was overwhelming and positive.

In turn, friends shared their experiences and offered support and empathy. Through her authenticity, Sarah created a safe space for others to open up, forging deeper connections based on genuine understanding and compassion.

She was freed from the misperceptions her online characterization created. And she was more loved by her followers than she ever thought possible.

I’m not suggesting we move from a false perception to an emotionally deep one, but I am suggesting we need to be free to be our authentic selves as it relates to why we are on any given platform.

Authenticity Demands Wholehearted Living

Author and researcher Brené Brown said, “Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.” These words encapsulate the essence of authenticity and remind us that genuine connection begins with self-acceptance.

We must trust that we are of value and have something worth sharing with others. That doesn’t mean we have to open the dam and allow all our emotional baggage to pour out on the overwhelmed. But it does mean we have to admit we aren’t perfect.

As a writer and director, I can tell you that the most essential element in great stories is the main character’s flaw. If the audience or reader never knows their weakness or Achilles heal, they won’t ever be able to relate to or passionately cheer them on.

If our online profile is too carefully crafted, no one will be able to relate to who we are, making us inapproachable. This becomes detrimental if we are being considered for a job or contract. No one wants to hire perfection.

The Power of Online Authenticity

Authenticity is the key to building meaningful connections in the online world. When we embrace our true selves and professionally share our genuine thoughts, emotions, and experiences, we create a foundation of trust and relatability.

Authenticity allows others to see the real us on screen, fostering deeper connections and conversations beyond the surface level.

Benefits of Authenticity in Online Profiles

A natural set of benefits reveal itself when we live authentically online.

1. Build Trust: Authenticity breeds trust. When we showcase our true selves, others are more likely to trust and engage with us. It creates a sense of transparency, making our connections feel genuine and reliable.

2. Inspire Others: We encourage others to do the same by embracing our authenticity. When people witness someone being genuine and open, it empowers them to share their stories, fostering a supportive community.

3. Personal Well-Being: Pretending to be someone we’re not takes a lot of work and can lead to stress, anxiety, and a constant fear of rejection. Embracing authenticity in our online profiles liberates us from the pressure to conform, promoting mental and emotional well-being.

4. Nurture Real Connections: Authenticity strengthens our friendships with others online. When we are authentic on-screen and off, we attract like-minded individuals who appreciate us for who we are. These connections are more likely to be meaningful and long-lasting.

Tips for Embracing Authenticity Online

1. Self-Reflection: Take time to understand your values, passions, and aspirations. Knowing yourself is crucial in presenting an authentic version of who you are online.

2. Share the Highs and Lows: While focusing solely on the highlights is tempting, don’t shy away from sharing your flaws, struggles, and vulnerabilities. Authenticity lies in the balance of the good and the challenging moments. The best way to reveal our flaws is within the context of what we’ve overcome in life.

3. Be Honest and Genuine: Speak from the heart and let your true voice shine through. Avoid creating a facade or imitating others. Your uniqueness is what makes you special.

4. Embrace Imperfection: Remember that no one is perfect. Embrace your imperfections and embrace the messy, imperfect aspects of life. Authenticity thrives in natural, unfiltered moments.

Authenticity is a Powerful Transforming Force

Sarah learned that sharing real stories, thoughts, and emotions, built trust, inspired others, enhanced her own well-being, and nurtured real connections. Her new journey into the world of authenticity became a beacon of truth and relatability.

When navigating the right mix with our profiles, we can let go of expectations, comparisons, and the pressure to conform. Embracing our individuality empowers us to be unapologetically our professional selves.

The result might be similar to that of Sarah’s newly developed community of supporters. Or, it will at least open the door for genuine connections built on empathy, understanding, and shared experiences.

As we try to keep our profiles consistent, remember that authenticity is not a one-time achievement but a daily practice. It requires self-awareness, vulnerability, and a willingness to be true to ourselves.

So, as Sarah did, we embark on this journey of authenticity together, shaping a digital world where genuine connections and meaningful conversations thrive.

Copyright © 2023 by CJ Powers