To be authentic or not to be authentic? That’s not the question!

Authenticity is neither inherently positive nor negative. It is a neutral concept, devoid of judgment. At its core, authenticity means being true to your own personality, values, and beliefs. Consider this: both Adolf Hitler and Buddha were authentic leaders. They were unwaveringly true to their values, beliefs, and personalities, despite their radically different legacies. This stark contrast highlights a crucial point: authenticity, in itself, does not equate to goodness.

Many people who champion authenticity often fall into a trap. They tout the importance of being authentic as if it were synonymous with being virtuous. Yet, these same individuals frequently contradict themselves, either consciously or unconsciously, through their words and actions.

With this in mind, the real questions we should be asking ourselves are:

1. What are my values and beliefs? Are they truly constructive? Many of the values and beliefs we hold dear are sold to us as positive by a system designed to govern and manipulate our behaviors. Are we sure they are genuinely beneficial?

2. What is my personality? To truly understand ourselves, we must observe our experiences, reflect on how they make us feel, and scrutinize our actions and reactions. Our character traits and behaviors are often inherited from and shaped by our family environment. Not all of these inherited traits are advantageous.

In conclusion, true authenticity is neither positive nor negative; it is simply a state of being. To be authentic is to embrace who we genuinely are, without the inherent assumption that this will lead to either virtue or vice. The essence of authenticity lies in self-awareness and honesty, not in moral judgment. By critically examining our values and beliefs, questioning their origins and impacts, we can navigate our personal authenticity in a way that is mindful and intentional. Ultimately, the value of authenticity depends on the substance behind it—whether it perpetuates harm or fosters growth and understanding. True authenticity, therefore, requires a nuanced approach, one that transcends simplistic notions of good and bad, and delves into the complexities of human nature and societal influence.