Is the public version of you the real you?

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.

SIA Clyde

I would say yes absolutely so. I try to share my struggles openly-in the past perhaps I have been way more open than I should have been. But I share my personal thoughts and hardships to inspire others and so that they wont feel so isolated whether its in their self image, their motherhood, etc. Read More>>

Ana Baez

I’m actually glad this question was asked, because there’s a common assumption that who we see on social media isn’t who that person really is. And while that may be true for some, it’s not true for me. The public version of me is the real me. Read More>>

Gloria Lay

The question ‘Is the public version of you the real you?’ invites deep reflection on identity and self-presentation. Many people curate their online images or personas to fit social expectations or gain approval, which can sometimes overshadow their authentic selves. Read More>>

RiVERSE

MONROE: One thing about RiVERSE is that we’re never pretending to be something we are not. I think that’s why people find us so relatable and are drawn to us. We truly are ourselves through our music, online, in videos. Read More>>

Olga Wilhelmine Munding

For the most part, yes — the public version of me is very close to who I am privately. I’m a sensitive person, an intuitive one, and someone who genuinely values connection and meaning, whether I’m officiating a ceremony, performing music, or simply talking with someone I’ve just met. Read More>>

Dominic Adonis

The public version of me or my social media presence is definitely a *part of the real ‘me’. I always joke that there is the Dominic Adonis you see on stage, the Dominic Adonis you meet at after parties, and the Dominic Adonis you might find wandering in the streets. It is very important to note- these are VERY different people. Read More>>

Christal Gamble Banks

Because I spend so much time in the public eye and on social media, it’s hard to make every moment authentic. But I try too. I don’t want to be an example of perfection but of reality. Choosing to educate your children is not a light decision and portraying a false ideal can be a setback for other families considering the same path. Read More>>

Chad Bruckner

It is, very much so. That’s been the equally the most challenging and rewarding part. I am me and I share that selflessly and openly with others. It’s created deep bonds with strangers. They see me and I give them (metaphorically) permission to look inward and see themselves with grace and not judgment. Read More>>

Trenice Martin

No, not entirely! (laughs) In public, especially in professional or work settings, I tend to present a more polished, business-focused version of myself. My true silliness and playful side are definitely dialed way down…more than people might expect. In reality, I love to clown around, joke, and bring a lot of energy and humor into everyday moments. Read More>>

Daryl Thompson

Not entirely. My work has required me to maintain a certain false façade for most of my life. Much of what I’ve done has involved Red Cell operations, national security work, and problem‑solving missions that can’t be discussed openly. For decades, even my own family didn’t really know what I did for a living. Read More>>

Shana Francesca

For the most part. I have learned that people I don’t know are not owed intimate parts of me, but who they meet when I am on a stage or in a meeting room, facilitating a workshop is the real me, it’s just not all of me. Read More>>

Phyllis Caddell

Ah, the age-old question! I like to think of the public version of me as the highlight reel—full of smiles, adventures, and passion! But the real me includes the quirky moments, the cozy nights watching a good movie, and the occasional dance off party in my kitchen. Read More>>

Jenna D’Annunzio

I can confidently say that, YES! The public version of me is the real me. I believe that who we are anywhere is who we are everywhere and bringing that philosophy into everything and anything I do. Read More>>

Brandon Miller

Great question, especially in the world of social media and everyone’s highlight reels. Yes, the public version of me is the real me. I couldn’t always say that. Early in my voice acting career, I tried putting on a polished version of myself—so safe and dull that I was forgettable. These days, when I show up online, it’s 100% me. Read More>>

Amanda Russell

Yea. I’ve tried to be mysterious and hold certain parts of my personality back, but who has time for that? What you see is truly what you get. I’m loud, sarcastic, and sometimes out of pocket, but I care a lot and I’ll always help people who need it. Read More>>