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.
Leinz Cherilus
The public version of me is real, but it is not the whole story. What people see is the disciplined version. The one who shows up with clarity, confidence, and direction. That part is real because it was built through experience, pressure, and accountability. What the public does not always see is the quieter work. The doubt that had to be faced in private. Read More>>
Jill Lawrence
Yes, the public version of me is the real me, because integrity matters deeply to me. I define integrity as alignment, when what I think, say, and do match. Over time, being authentic has become more important to me than being liked. Read More>>
Josh Maxon
The public version of me is the real me, warts and all. I don’t have the time to be different people. Sometimes, that gets me into trouble. Sometimes, it works out. But above everything, its authentic. It’s genuine. It’s real, and it’s also scary. When people buy something handmade, they’re not just buying your art, they’re choosing a piece of You. Read More>>
Tony Rivera
Most of the time, yes. But it took years to get there. For a long time, the public version of me was a survival version of me. Polished. Controlled. Productive. The guy who could walk into any room and perform competence, even if I was carrying a storm inside. Foster care will teach you how to read people fast and adjust even faster. Read More>>
Colorado Bhangra
● What were some of the biggest challenges you guys have faced with your team, and how did you manage to overcome them to be where you are today? Our team has faced a few different challenges since our inception, and as mentioned earlier, a lot of these challenges were what allowed us to become the team we are today. Read More>>
Anzal Khan
Not completely, and I don’t think it ever could be. The public version of me is real, but it’s only a small part of who I am. Social media can show moments and highlights, but it doesn’t capture the full depth of someone’s life. I’m also very intentional about what I choose to share. Read More>>
Susan Carabello
For the first time in my life, yes! The public version of me is the real me. It was not before; I was very much more concerned with what others were thinking of me versus what was good for Susan. I am a high energy, lover of life and you will always find me dancing. Read More>>
Safeerul Haque Syed
The public version of me is definitely real, but it is not the whole story. Most people see the focused, professional side that is organized, clear, and solution-driven, and that part is very genuine. Behind the scenes, I am a bit more reflective and curious. That is where I think out loud, question assumptions, try new ideas, and take time to process challenges. Read More>>
Brittany Glover
Absolutely. Authenticity is something I take very seriously. I’ve spent much of my life learning who I am, and my identity is something I’ve always felt confident in showing. I never want to be performative, if I’m sharing my journey, it’s important that it’s real and meaningful. Read More>>
Andrea Miranda González
Yes and no. What I share publicly is real, but it’s not total. The shadow, as Jung describes it, also belongs to who we are — and some parts of the self exist beyond visibility. Read More>>
