Beyond the Buzzwords: What Does It Mean to Live Authentically?

Authentic growth, meaningful relationships, and embodied living – it all sounds so great and fancy, but what is it really about, and where do we start?

Many of us have felt disconnected from ourselves at some point. It doesn’t take much more than a Google search or liking a video for the algorithm to start feeding you content about authentic growth, meaningful relationships, and embodied living. I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t want these things – I mean, it all sounds great! However, I’m often left with the questions: Where do I start, and what is it really about?

So, let’s dive into it. Let’s attempt to build a bridge between fancy mental wellness words and reality: the life we actually live.

If words like authenticity, embodied living, and meaningful relationships speak to you, it might be because you’re curious for more. Maybe it’s a feeling that something is off or missing. In my therapeutic practice, I often work with the underlying question: How can I live the life I want? This could be a direct question or a more subtle and subconscious theme. People can experience some kind of disconnect or blockage between the life they find themselves living and who they actually are. So, then what?

One way of approaching these feelings and questions is by finding your way home to your own sense of meaning and (re)connecting with your values. I dearly love returning to this question:

What creates meaning in your life?

Write a list, brainstorm, sing a song, carry the question with you throughout the week, and notice what comes up. This is a way of nurturing your relationship with yourself, giving yourself time and space to reflect. If you can get here, you’re already well on your way toward living more authentically and embodied.

You might also find it heavy, challenging, completely blank, or just impossible to answer. Fear not – it’s a big question. There can be many layers to it. You don’t have to do it all alone. Reach out to friends, family, colleagues, and/or professionals. And most importantly, be kind and patient with yourself.

One step at a time.

Follow me for more reflections and inspiration to better understand yourself, connect with what matters, and live more authentically.