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.
Jasmin McGee

The public version of me is the real me. I shine the light that is me into the world authentically with compassion, understanding, empathy, and love. There was a time when I believed that the truest parts of myself were meant to be hidden – that my softness, my sensitivity, my depth were to be guarded or shown only in safe spaces. Read more>>
Sunni Jones

For the most part, yes — what you see is who I am. I’ve worked hard to show up as my full self, both on and off the screen. The version of me that people see publicly is rooted in the same woman who’s still figuring things out behind the scenes — just with a little more intention and a lot more grace. Read more>>
Sharae Young

The version of me is what you will get on a daily because I don’t change. Read more>>
Margaret Alvarez

The answer is a confident yes. I was definitely scared to share my ideas at first. But I quickly learned that when you’re starting a business and asking people to invest in your mission, you have to be completely authentic. People connect with authenticity and they want to see how you connect to the mission you’re selling. For me, that mission is my pure joy. Read more>>
Avina

Of course. I think the reason most people that are successful nowadays has a lot to do with their authenticity and especially for artists. I always make it a priority to show the real me at all times meaning there’s no other versions. Read more>>
Gabriel Prusmack

Completely! Transparency is what being free is all about! Have fun! Be tired, be real! Be encouraging! Buy someone a coffee, give your entire being to life! Read more>>
Danish Farooqui

What you see is what you get. I consider myself a devout Muslim and I practice in public and private to the best of my abilty. The best way to bring someone to God is be example of His Message. Read more>>