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.
Morgan Peaceman
I am as real and authentic to myself as I can be on and off the digital page and in social apps. I am unapologetically me in everything I do, say, feel, and create. Read more>>
Sonia Sleeger
Yes, the public version of myself is true x10! No fakeness here! I am proud that I still maintain elementary and high school friendships. I have never wanted to hide behind a facade personality. What you see is what you get. I love who I am! Read more>>
Doula Lo
In short, YES. I believe authenticity starts within and off the screen, when you are authentic in your real life it naturally transfers in what you do. Read more>>
Selene Coccato
The public version of me is the most controversial but no less true. I defend my ideas and my beliefs both privately and in public, but I try to do so without ever getting into arguments or creating pointless controversy. Read more>>
Jennifer Fraser
I work on bullying and gaslighting so my goal is to be as truthful, painful as it is, at all times. I strive to replace illusion with reality. I decode manipulation in real time. I am instantly on high alert when the public version of someone is different from who they are behind closed doors. This is the Dr, Jekyll / Mr. Read more>>
Nia English
Mostly, yes but it’s the polished version. The real me is quieter, more reflective, and still figuring things out as I grow older. I like keeping a bit of mystery, especially in a world where everything is exposed. What people see is genuine, just filtered through confidence and purpose. Read more>>
Charles Ingham
Unfortunately, yes. Read more>>
Juliana Frangella
I think, yes. I think this is part of why it felt really scary to admit that I want to be a ‘real’ artist. There is really no character that I am playing, I just showcase different facets of my personality through my music. Read more>>
Laila Nieves
The public version of me is definitely not the real version of me. Like I said earlier, I can be very shy and quiet. After meeting me for the first time, most people probably walk away thinking, “She’s kinda awkward,” and honestly, they’re not wrong. Read more>>
Tim Peakman
In short, ‘as close as possible.’ This is always the challenge for me: to be as authentic online as I am in daily life. I define authenticity as being genuine, real, and true to oneself, aligning internal thoughts, feelings, and values with external expression and actions. I’ve observed many people present differently online than in person (it can be quite surprising when you meet them). Read more>>
Angel Willis
The public version of me is definitely real, what people see publicly is the professional Angel: dedicated, focused, and passionate about my career. That part of me is genuine and comes from years of hard work and professionalism. But like anyone, there’s more to me than what’s shared publicly. Read more>>
Joye Hurling
Absolutely! I am very big on being genuine and staying true to who I am regardless of the atmosphere. The content I promote, the music I write and perform, and the brands I use and recommend are all because they are a reflection of who I am. Read more>>
