Identify Your Authentic Self: Beyond Desires, Roles, and Social Constructs

Identifying The Real You

Understanding your true self means going deeper than what society focuses on. Your original design - the real you, isn't affected by things like your relationships, your stuff, the roles you take on, or even how you identify sexually. These outside factors are parts of your life but don't define your core identity.

It can be tricky when we start thinking that these external parts are who we are. Your social circle, the way you sexually identify, what you own, and how you fit into society can influence how you're seen and how you see yourself. But, confusing them with your identity will distract and detour you from discovering and embracing your true and authentic self.

Recognizing the difference between external expression and your inner essence

This true self—your original design is all about your inherent values, passions, and purposes. It's stable, no matter what's happening around you, and it's there for you to uncover and express fully. Recognizing this difference between external expressions and influences and your inner essence is crucial for identifying your authentic self and living an authentic life.

Acknowledging that relationships, how you identify, your possessions, and societal roles are just expressions of your experience, not the fabric of your being, is vital. This understanding encourages you to align with your true nature and original design, paving the way for a fulfilling and purposeful life all the way down to your core.

Differentiating what is truly you from what is not

By peeling back these layers and differentiating what's truly you from what's not, you deepen your connection with your authentic self. This journey involves introspection, the bravery to shed societal expectations, and embracing the unique individual God created you to be. Doing this opens up a life that truly mirrors your essence, free from societal constraints and the need for external approval and fulfillment.

This essence, or original design, is untouched by external attributes such as the dynamics of your relationships, how you identify sexually, the possessions you accumulate, or any societal roles you may play. These external factors, while aspects of your life experience, have nothing to do with and do not define the core of who you are.

Now, envision the process of stripping away these layers

Imagine your identity as being similar to wearing layers upon layers of clothing. Each layer represents something external—like your job, your social status, the car you drive, or even the relationships you're in. These layers, while part of your daily life, are like garments that can be changed or removed. They add to your appearance but don't define the core of who you are.

Now, envision the process of stripping away these layers, one by one. As each piece is removed, you get closer to what's beneath—all the way down to your nakedness. This nakedness symbolizes your authentic self, free from all external adornments, filtered expressions and influences. It's you in your most natural state, the original design that's been there all along, untouched by the world's definitions, expectations or material possessions.

Metaphorical nakedness

This metaphorical nakedness represents the essence of your being—your values, passions, and the unique gifts you were created with. It's a state of vulnerability, yes, but also of pure authenticity. Without the external layers, all that's left is the real you, not defined by what you have or how others see you, but by your inherent nature, worth and character. This exploration includes imagining yourself stripped of even the desire or attraction for another human—considering your essence as entirely solitary, highlighting that the core of who you are exists in the earth  independently of any human relational dynamics.

Embracing this level of authenticity brings to the forefront, the profound understanding that your true self is not reliant on external validations, possessions, or even the connections you have with others. It's a recognition that at your very essence, you are a complete and whole being, unique and valuable in your right. This realization empowers you to live more freely, unencumbered by societal expectations or the need to seek fulfillment outside of your creator and yourself, but rather finding peace and purpose within the purity of your own authentic existence- the fullness of who God intended, created and designed you to be.

Here are five elements to consciously remove from the equation as you seek to identify your authentic self:

1. Relationships and Social Roles: While relationships can enrich our lives, your authentic self is not defined by your role as a parent, partner, friend, or any social status. These roles play a part in your life but do not encompass the entirety of your being. Focus on who you are outside of these connections.

2. Sexual Identity: Your sexuality is an aspect of your human experience but it does not define your deepest self. The authentic self transcends physical desires and attractions, residing in the spiritual and personal essence of who you are created to be.

3. Material Possessions and Wealth: Material success and the things you own can shape your lifestyle but they do not reflect your true self. Your worth and authenticity are not measured by material wealth or the accumulation of possessions.

4. Career Success and Titles: Achievements and professional status are external validations of your skills and talents, but they are not indicators of your authentic self. Your true value lies in your intrinsic nature, qualities and character, not in your family role, job title or career milestones.

5. Physical Appearance: While self-expression through appearance can be a reflection of your soul, your true essence is not tied to how you look. Your authentic self is about the beauty of your spirit, your values, and the truth of who God created and designed you to be, far beyond physical attributes.

6. Social Media Persona: The curated personas we create on social media platforms are often highlight reels that do not represent our authentic selves, they should but they usually don't. Detaching your self-worth from likes, followers, and online personas is crucial in discovering the real you.

By removing these elements from the equation, you make room to explore and connect with your authentic self—the unique, unchangeable essence that is loved and valued by God for His intrinsic mastery, your brilliance, beauty and worth. This journey is about discovering the 'you' that exists beyond all external labels and experiences, grounded in the truth of your original design, divine connection and purpose.

xoxo Qiana Nicole