Authenticity is a virtue that many of us strive for. It is the key to creating honest friendships and building trust with people who surround us. People generally enjoy getting to know true character more than interacting with facades. Authenticity is essential, but it has the potential to be hurtful when it is exercised without tact and purpose.
“Keepin’ it real” doesn’t require any cruelty. Healthy displays of authenticity include speaking up about a cause that’s important to you, admitting when you’re struggling, expressing concern for a friend, or giving constructive criticism. “I’m just being real with you,” is not a valid excuse for hurting people.
Photo by Daina Phillips for Her Campus at SFA
There will always be consequences to the words you say. While you can’t control how people react to you, you can still anticipate how they might feel according to your previous interactions. You are ultimately responsible for choosing which words to verbalize out of the contents of your mind. While your thoughts are absolutely valid, you don’t have to vocalize all of them to prove they are true or to prove that you are an honest person.
Authenticity allows for transparent conversations that lead to healthy relationships, but it loses its charm and value when it is used as a means to carelessly express hurtful thoughts.