At some point, every artist has to make a choice: create to be accepted, or create to be honest. The truth is, you can't do both all the time.
You’re giving the best parts of yourself to a void that only takes. It consumes without ever giving back.
Here are a few ways I cultivate authenticity in both my work and my life (which are deeply intertwined, by the way):
1. Start with awareness.
Begin by noticing the pattern; when you crave approval, when you shift your voice, when doubt creeps in. Don’t shame it. Just notice it.
Awareness reduces unconscious control. You can’t change what you don’t see.
2. Remember your intentions.
Ask yourself: Did I act from truth? From love? From alignment?
If the answer is yes, then their perception is no longer your responsibility. Intentions anchor you in self-trust.
3. Remove the spotlight.
Most people are preoccupied with their own lives. They're not watching you as closely as you think.
Realizing this gives you the freedom to move, to express, to live.
4. Embody values, not validation.
Write down three values that matter to you—honesty, curiosity, softness, whatever calls to you. Let those guide your choices.
When you live by your values, you become less reactive to what others approve of.
Self-alignment is louder than social approval; and when it’s loud, outside voices don’t make a sound 😜
5. Practice inner dialogue like a friend.
When your mind spirals, pause and ask: If someone I loved felt this way, what would I tell them?
Now tell that to yourself, out loud or in writing. Compassion builds resilience against judgment.
6. Make peace with being misunderstood.
Some people will misinterpret you. That’s okay.
Your soul wasn’t sent here to be palatable; it was sent to be real. 🌠
“Freedom lives on the other side of needing to be liked.”
7. Rewire through action.
Every time you do something despite the fear of judgment—post that photo, wear that outfit, speak that truth—your nervous system learns: I didn’t die. I can be myself and still be safe.
Self-trust is built not in thought, but in repetition.
Free and unfathomable as a bird