Does the thought of being seen for who you really are terrify you? Do you live your life for everyone else, showing coworkers, friends, even some family members the person they expect to see; the version of you that they’re comfortable with? It’s exhausting trying to be someone you’re not; someone everyone else wants you to be.  Just think how liberating it would be to live in a way that made you genuinely happy and fulfilled. You, are the only you there is.  As Kurt Cobain said, “Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are.” 

Some of us long to be a rock star, dancer, writer or (insert so-called “crazy” idea here) but would never think of voicing our dreams out loud, let alone taking the leap. We present ourselves as less than who we really are so we don’t draw attention to our uniqueness.

So, here’s the truth.  The vast majority of people in your life are not judging you.  They are living their lives unconcerned with what you do or say. In fact, most will not only appreciate the real you, but wonder where you’ve been hiding for so long. Sure, there will be a few that will act weird when you decide to share the unfiltered version of yourself, but they may be acting that way because something is lacking in their life, and they too, long for more.  Some may be uncomfortable when you decide to go for it because it reminds them that they are afraid to. You are not responsible for their life but it’s time to start taking charge of yours.

That little quirk, funny laugh or crazy hair you were born with is not meant to be hidden away or changed; it may be the best thing about you! You were not given interests, dreams and passions to put them in a box and never express them. You were never supposed to deprive the world of them; they are meant to be shared.

The next time you’re feeling judged by someone, just send them this video from Gary Vaynerchuk. I should warn you, he is very direct and sometimes has a potty-mouth but he speaks to me and puts everything into perspective. Hopefully it will speak to you too.