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.
Daria Troshkina
It depends entirely on what someone means by “the real me.” I believe only a few people in one’s life ever get to truly know who you are—those who have stayed long enough, shared experiences with you, witnessed your growth, and saw you not only in your strength but also in your uncertainty. Read more>>
Ben Schenkman
Authenticity is one of the things I strive for in my life. Gabor Maté, a world renowned physician, says that if you have to sacrifice authenticity for being attached to other people, those aren’t relationships worth having. The public version of me is the real me, if turned up a little bit. Read more>>
Sarah Gardner
I would say mostly yes to this question. It’s hard for me to be fake even though I spent years of my life trying to be what everyone else in my life seemed to need me to be! Many people have told me that my art is full of love and happiness, and I believe this is true. Read more>>
Lor Clincy
The public version of me is a real version of myself—one I choose to share with others. “Real” is subjective, and I’m my fullest, most authentic self when I’m comfortable. Read more>>
Esperanza Creese
Yes—what you see is what you get. The public version of me is absolutely the real me. My awkwardness is 100 percent authentic, and I definitely have a sarcastic streak with a bit of dark humor at times. But that’s exactly what I love about myself. I show up as who I am, unapologetically, and I think people connect with that honesty Read more>>
Dan Brigstock
Definitely — but it didn’t used to be. For a long time I found it scary to express my honest thoughts and opinions. I’m a lifelong people-pleaser, so I’d often soften myself to avoid upsetting anyone. Over time I realised that not only is it impossible to please everyone, but you also lose a bit of who you are when you try. Read more>>
Mr And Mrs Global
Absolutely, the public version of us is 100% real, but like any creator, there’s that tiny 2% where we experiment, play, and stretch into the versions of ourselves we’re becoming. We’re genuinely who we say we are: a couple that travels, jokes, argues, loves hard, works nonstop, and lets people watch the journey. Read more>>
Gorica Regodic
It is definitely a version of me. We can’t control how all the people will react to us, everyone notices something else, everyone has different experiences etc. Things that make us sweet in one’s eyes could make us sour in other’s. So, even if you try really hard to present yourself differently from who you are- someone will see that. Read more>>
Priscilla LOWE
Through the many radio shows and TV appearances, you’ll get to discover who I am. You’ll see that I’m quick-witted and truly attentive. My humor and vibrant energy are shared with everyone around me. I know how to be very serious and structured, while adapting to every situation. Read more>>
Dr. Wally Bartfay
Yes, I do have a public version of myself as Dr. and Professor Wally Bartfay, with various peer-reviewed articles bearing my name, six published textbooks on community and public health, and various on-line lectures that you can watch on YouTube (see link https://www.youtube.com/@wallybartfay5102). However, I have an alternative persona known as the ‘Rocking Prof’ (see link https://sites.google.com/view/wally-bartfay-music/wally-bartfay-music-productions). Read more>>
Thana Redhawk
The public version of me is outgoing and fun. I enjoy networking and meeting others. The private version of me is often spent doing artistic projects and spending time with my family. And the same person in public as I am in private, the only difference is who I’m spending my time with. Read more>>
Calista Garcia
I think, increasingly, yes. With this new album, as well as just brain development and increasingly self-knowledge, I feel like I generally present who I am and what I’m about. I would say, if someone is interested in knowing my deal from what I present, the most accurate picture is probably the new music, particularly the more confessional ones, ‘Animal Magnifique’, ‘Ghost’ and ‘Spookshow’. Read more>>
Kathy Zhou
Yes and no, but ultimately, yes. When I think of my “public persona,” the thing that comes to mind first is live performances. These days I mostly perform my original songs. These songs are all genuine and from my heart. The emotions you see are real. I get very passionate and my full body is involved. Read more>>
