I suffered from bipolar disorder for decades. Many days and nights I spent contemplating suicide. I could have sought help sooner, but like so many of us, I feared revealing my mental illness to the world.

What a mistake! The best thing I ever did was remove that mask. Now, I can serve as an example for others to follow.

Authenticity is not easy.  We all feel pressure to conform to society’s expectations, to hide our true selves for fear of disapproval by friends, lovers, colleagues, or employers. But much of this pressure is self-generated.

You don’t need approval or validation. You have a right to be you.  Don’t wear a mask: dare to be yourself!

… interested in some inspiring tips on choosing authenticity, and some exercises to get you started?