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.
JJ Caballero
I am the same guy all the time. Sometimes I’m introverted, sometimes I want to be the life of the party and for everyone to look at me. It feels like I’ve been performing so long that this has just naturally become my state of being. Read more>>
Sherly Gonzalez
What you see is what you get. I believe there’s not enough transparency in society, however it is exciting and relieving to see that shift a bit, especially in social media. I’ve had customers, friends, and family describe my personality as bubbly and outgoing but I also have times where I prefer my solitude, get a bit distant and quiet. Read more>>
Jon Powell
Pretty much. One of the reasons I got into the brewing industry was because I felt like I could be myself. I don’t like wearing nice clothes or worrying about my appearance in general, so a hot, humid, dirty environment was perfect for me. I like to work hard and implement processes to get a job done in the best way possible. Read more>>
Sara Mires
At my core, I’d say yes — what you see is who I am, but like everyone, I have different sides. I’ve been learning how to refine myself depending on the situation without losing my true self. Authenticity has always mattered to me, even when it’s messy. Read more>>
D’Juana Ziegler
Absolutely. The public version of me is the real me, you just get the version you need. If you need a wise best friend, I’ll share my testimony. If you need a little tough love, I’ll show up as your no-nonsense guide. And if you need a hype man? Like Usher said, I’ll be your groupie, baby. My emotions are my superpower. Read more>>
LaNese Brown
One thousand percent! I have mastered the uncomfortableness of authenticity! I found a healthy balance between personality and intimacy. I learned that finding balance allows you to fully embrace your personality when you apply boundaries as it relates to over sharing. Read more>>
Natasha Montgomery
Absolutely. My goal has always been to walk in vulnerability and authenticity, so what you see on my platforms is truly who I am. One of the hardest parts about entering the mental health field was confronting this idea that therapists are supposed to hide themselves and always sit in the role of “the expert.” Now let me be clear. Read more>>
Mrs. Angeline Pedrosa
Yes, 100%. What you see is what you get with me. I’m pretty much the same person publicly as I am privately. My clients often tell me it feels like we’ve been lifelong friends, and I take that as the highest compliment—because I truly care. Read more>>
Catie Ronquillo
Absolutely! As a personal brand photographer, you’ll find me telling clients that a personal brand is not a persona. That it’s important (in my opinion) to be the same person online as you are in real life. You can certainly keep things private, but there should not be a disconnect between who you. Read more>>
Anthony Simmons
More and more so every day. I do my very best to be as authentic as I can be, especially with my clients. I don’t care much for the performance aspect of life. Read more>>
Hannah Nichols
100%. I refuse to be anything other than myself. There’s a huge lack of authenticity in the world right now, especially on social media, and I will not contribute to that. Read more>>
