We all think of ourselves as pretty authentic, striving to be the best possible versions of ourselves that we can. Each day we become stronger, wiser, more grounded, more loving and confident.

It’s not easy being an authentic person and it takes courage to stand up for yourself and for your own wants and needs. To follow your inner voice and hearts desires can be an uphill battle. Let alone the societal and religious dogmas that have been thrust upon us.

After working our way through we still, are faced with the challenge of finding out for ourselves what we truly would like to get out of this world while were here.
Authentic people, have mastered these traits and stay true to their hearts– no matter how far off the beaten trail it may lead.

1.They think before they speak

Authentic people are not run by their emotions and they know how to assess a situation before giving their input.

2. They speak for what is right; not for what is popular

Standing up for what is right isn’t always easy to do, especially when faced by peers and elders who think differently. It takes confidence and courage to stand firm in the face of scrutiny.

3. They indulge in conversations with depth

Authentic people aren’t captivated by mainstream hype, the next it girl or guy or the latest buzz in the media. They yearn for deep and meaningful conversation. They want to explore your mind, your heart and your soul.

4. They don’t pay attention to gossip or drama

It is said that gossip stops upon meeting wise ears, and gossip always stops with an authentic person.

They don’t take kindly to those who choose to speak harshly of other behinds their backs and make a non-judgmental note of the “witch that warned them” Quite often you will find the words turned back around on you, when attempting to spread gossip, to an authentic person.

5. They are comfortable being alone

Authentic people are comfortable alone because they are in a position of love and acceptance of themselves, otherwise being alone would turn into being lonely and it never does.

6. They value life as an experience rather than a collection of goods.

Authentic people value each and every moment and experience and understand that the best things in life can’t be bought or sold.

Life to them is about living, caring, loving and giving, not having, taking, asking and expecting.

7. They appear as an introvert, but are very outgoing

Authentic people highly regard time alone to recharge and rewire. They are often mistaken for recluse, but when exposed to social gathering they can be very outgoing and friendly. Too much time in social circles will become draining on them, and will likely be one of the first to ditch off early for a nice relaxing evening at home.

8. They truly wish for the success of others

Authentic people do not secretly wish for others to fail or become jealous for the successes of those around them. They genuinely like to see people happy and healthy, living and loving their lives.

9. They trust their gut and listen to their instincts

Authentic people know how to listen to themselves and can appreciate the moments where they didn’t as another opportunity to trust themselves more.

10. They follow their heart

Authentic people follow their hearts no matter how far, how crazy and how much it may hurt.

They understand that their hearts are their very best teacher and respect its wise wishes.

11. They stand out from the crowd

Authentic people do not search out for popularity, they stand out for their own uniqueness. No asking, no expecting it just happens. When you live true to yourself, you become eccentric, eclectic and exuberant it just happens!

12. They love themselves first

Authentic people know that there is no way to be a beacon of light or an inspiration to others unless they can lead by example. In order to love others and accept each other no matter, what we must first love and accept ourselves. It is the only way.

13. They do things their own way

Authentic people don’t care how it is supposed to be done, the joy of living is learning, and learning in our own unique ways.

14. They see the value in life

All life has value, none more than another, from the tiniest insect to the largest mammal, we are here on this earth together and all life has meaning.

15. They see whats under the surface

Authentic people don’t focus on whats on the surface, and they prefer to see whats hidden underneath. They quite often don’t take words at face value, and they can hear the emotions behind the words being spoken. This is what they listen to.

16. They don’t take it personally

Authentic people know that when someone is rude, critical or downright hurtful that it has more to do about the other person than it does about them. Authentic people always empathize with others and show a sense of understanding, no matter the words spoken.

17. They are decisive, cool and collected

Authentic people always have a plan, a goal and an aspiration even if its to just go with the flow.

18. They make their own path

Authentic people want to do what has never been done, see what has never been seen and reach where no one would have ever thought possible. Sometimes, they secretly enjoy proving to you that it CAN be done.

19. They are never fake

An authentic person will never tell you what you want to hear, just because you want to hear it. They will empathize with you and give you the ugly truth when you are ready for it.

20. They are always grateful 

They know that the key to abundance is being in a state of acceptance. The more that anyone expects things, the less can be accepted.

21. They see the world from a higher perspective

When you live true to yourself, with love, hope, strength, courage and commitment you can’t help but view the world from a more perceptive view. You have built your mountain strong and firm and you can’t wait to help everyone else rise to the top.

by LJ Vanier