Dear Readers,
Jacob Collier, a prodigious English musician, once said, "The bottom line is you need to be authentic, you have to be really honest with yourself." This is a powerful testament to the need for authenticity in everything we do. As we navigate through our individual life's journeys, these words become increasingly essential.
Let's pause for a moment and reflect on the essence of Collier's statement. Authenticity is, in a nutshell, the art of being true to yourself - it is to live in alignment with your values, beliefs, and actions. It's about embracing who you are, accepting your strengths and weaknesses, and not being afraid to show your true self to the world.
In my years of teaching Pilates and my journey through life, I've encountered a diverse array of people. From professional dancers to fitness enthusiasts, all have one common goal – to improve. However, progress isn't merely about perfecting a Pilates move or gaining strength. It's about fostering an authentic connection with oneself, understanding your body, its abilities, and pushing the boundaries while being honest about your limitations.
Being authentic doesn't mean you won't falter or have doubts. It's quite the contrary. Authenticity often leads us to the acknowledgment of our imperfections. It is the recognition that we are not infallible, and that is perfectly okay. This acknowledgement is the first step towards personal growth.
Just as in a Pilates class, where each movement requires a genuine understanding and connection with your body, life too requires authenticity. For example, when executing a Pilates move, if you push too hard beyond your limit, you risk injury. However, if you acknowledge your current limit and work within it, gradually pushing the boundary, you will grow stronger and more capable over time.
The same philosophy applies to our lives. If we are not authentic, if we push ourselves to fit into moulds that do not represent who we are, it creates tension and discomfort. But, when we are honest about who we are, what we want, what we can do, and what we believe in, we create room for growth. We enable ourselves to expand our horizons and achieve what may have seemed impossible before.
Remember, an authentic journey isn’t always a straightforward one, it is filled with bends, turns, even roadblocks, but each one serves a purpose. Each challenge you face and every decision you make brings you one step closer to a stronger, more resilient, and authentic self.
As you embark or continue on your journey of authenticity, remember to be patient with yourself. Changes do not happen overnight, and becoming truly authentic is a gradual process. It is a marathon, not a sprint. Every day, strive to be a little more genuine, a little more you. Embrace your authenticity, embrace your journey, and watch how life aligns itself in harmony with your true self.
In the words of Shakespeare, "This above all: to thine own self be true". So, be authentic, be true to yourself, and unleash your potential. Your authenticity is your strength and it is the essence of your being.
Until next time,
Michael
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