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.
Rosy L
The public version of me is the real me. I believe in being my authentic self. Depending on where I am, I may be a little shy at first; however, once you talk to me for a while, I become a little goofball. At the end of the day, whoever I interact with, I just want to make sure they feel loved. Read more >>>
Mark Dye
Don’t we all live many lives? I think despite the need to code switch in different situations, a person can have more than one authentic self. Having started up a small business, I’ve been struck with how much it incentivizes me to be my best self in certain ways. Read more >>>
Niki Joans
Almost — the public version of me is a mix of my stage persona and the pieces of who I am when no one’s watching. Offstage, I’m reserved. But under the lights, I’m unapologetically wild, unpredictable, and larger than life. I’m kind, yet firm with my boundaries. Read more >>>
Tsun-yuet Emmanuel Kwok
Being on stage? Yes, that really is me! Or maybe it’s the truest version of me, finally free. Some people talk about having different sides to themselves, but that’s never really been the case for me. Life as a musician is full of hard work. Read more >>>
Brittany McDonald
Yes, the public version of me is real, but it’s just one layer. What you see, my passion for herbs, healing, and uplifting women, is who I truly am. If you ask anybody who knows me personally, they’ll tell you I’ve always been giving, selfless, and caring, long before there was a brand or platform. The public me is the nurturer and motivator. Read more >>>
