# 6 Essential Habits to Safeguard Your Authentic Self
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Chapter 1: Recognizing the Challenge
Have you ever experienced days when you struggle to remember who you truly are? You glance around at your surroundings, feeling almost detached from your own life. I certainly have.
On those occasions, I sense that fragments of my identity are floating somewhere far away, not quite connected to me. Does that resonate with you?
In those moments, a thought strikes me: just as you strive to remain whole, the world seems intent on taking pieces of you away. Here are some strategies to help you resist that pull.
Section 1.1: The World’s Design
The world around us is structured to influence and manipulate us. Advertisements, societal norms, and influential figures all try to steer your thoughts in their desired direction.
Corporations often aim to convince you that their products or services are essential for your happiness.
Consider how most commercials feature cheerful individuals enjoying life with the product prominently displayed. The underlying message is clear: happiness equals consumption and conformity.
Section 1.2: Let Your Emotions Guide You
As human beings, our values shape our existence. Throughout life, we have various experiences that contribute to our sense of self.
For instance, feeling guilty about unkind behavior nudges you toward becoming more compassionate. Similarly, confusion in meetings can propel you toward greater efficiency, while frustration over unmet goals may lead you to seek distractions like Netflix.
Paying attention to these emotions is crucial for understanding and preserving your authentic self.
Subsection 1.2.1: Decisions That Shape You
When your aspirations include becoming a bestselling author, a thriving entrepreneur, or even a dedicated dog walker, your daily decisions must align with those goals.
For example, if writing is your passion, you need to commit to the act of writing regularly. Life’s responsibilities—like household chores or DIY projects—are important, but their priority can be flexible.
It's essential to recognize that you cannot be everything at once; acknowledging this truth is vital for your personal growth.
Chapter 2: The Power of Choice
Every day, you are faced with countless choices that shape your identity.
- Choosing to relax and watch TV
- Opting to read a book
- Deciding to eat healthily
- Committing to an early wake-up time
Each decision plays a role in constructing the person you wish to become. While not every choice will lead you closer to your ideal self, striving to make more empowering decisions is key to your development.
Section 2.1: Reevaluating Productivity
Recently, I've begun to reconsider my approach to productivity after listening to a podcast by Oliver Burkeman.
Previously, I juggled numerous ambitions—running, maintaining a clean home, and writing consistently—leaving me stretched thin. Burkeman's perspective shifted my thinking: attempting to accomplish everything is futile.
Instead, accepting the limitations of what you can achieve at any given time makes far more sense.
Section 2.2: Strategically Disengaging
It’s crucial to strategically disengage from commitments that do not serve your true self.
Identify the priorities that matter to you, acknowledge your limited capacity, and choose wisely what to focus on.
It can be challenging, as you cannot have it all. On a good day, you may only have room for three key focuses. While your attention can shift, spreading yourself too thin across too many pursuits can lead to frustration.
Choose the areas that align with your authentic self and dedicate your energy to them.
In the first video, "Transform Your Life: Daily Habits for Authenticity," you'll learn about habits that can help you stay true to yourself and cultivate authenticity in your daily life.
The second video, "Counselor Carl - How to Be Happy: 6 Habits for Happiness," explores six habits that contribute to personal happiness and fulfillment, guiding you toward a more joyful life.
Pre-order my upcoming book: 100,000 Words — How to Write Online While Balancing Your 9–5.