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.
Zografia Mastrovasilis
The public version of me is real — but she’s the polished, steady, ready-for-anything version. She’s the one who keeps calm when the florist is late, the linens are wrinkled, or the rain won’t stop. She’s the professional who makes sure every guest sees only the magic. Read more>>
Kristin Tomasello
Yes, the public version of me is the real me but it’s the part of me that’s most focused on my mission and my purpose. I’m just as passionate and driven in private, but like everyone, I also have quiet, vulnerable moments that the world doesn’t always see. Read more>>
Johnny Crowder
I learned early on that having a public self and a private self just wasn’t sustainable for me. The amount of effort it took to curate a public image that wasn’t aligned with my private character was draining, and I didn’t want to feel like I had to hide any part of myself from the people I hoped to partner with one day. Read more>>
