Being yourself around others is a journey of self-discovery and authenticity that involves a combination of self-awareness, confidence, and a healthy understanding of social dynamics. Here's how you can navigate this path:

1. Self-Awareness: Start by understanding who you are. Your values, likes, dislikes, strengths, and weaknesses. This is the foundation of being authentic because you can't be true to yourself if you don't know who you are.

2. Honesty and Openness: Be honest with yourself and others. It's okay to say "I don't know" or "I feel this way about that." People appreciate honesty and it builds trust.

3. Avoid Comparison: Don't compare yourself to others. Everyone is on their own unique journey. Comparisons are often the thief of joy and can lead to feelings of inadequacy.

4. Perceptions: **Stop caring about how people perceive you.** It's impossible to control what others think. Focus on your actions and character instead.

5. People-Pleasing: Stop being a people-pleaser. Trying to make everyone happy can lead to losing sight of your own needs and desires. It's important to set boundaries and be assertive.

6. Positive Surroundings: Surround yourself with positive people. The company you keep can greatly influence your behavior and mindset. Positive influences encourage you to be the best version of yourself.

7. Constructive Criticism: Learn to distinguish between **intimidating, sarcastic, or conniving comments** and well-intended constructive criticism. The latter can help you grow, while the former can be damaging to your self-esteem.

8. Confidence: Build your self-confidence. Believe in your abilities and your right to express yourself. Confidence can be a powerful tool in being yourself.

9. Practice: Authenticity is a practice. It's not something you achieve overnight. Be patient with yourself as you learn to be more genuine.

10. Acceptance: Accept that not everyone will like you, and that's okay. You don't have to be everyone's cup of tea.

11. Communication: Be open in your communication. Share your thoughts and feelings in a respectful and considerate manner.

12. Personal Growth: Continuously work on personal growth. The more you grow, the more comfortable you'll be in your own skin.

13. Respect: Respect others as you wish to be respected. This mutual respect can create a safe space for you to be yourself.

14. Self-Care: Take care of your physical, emotional, and mental health. A healthy you is a confident you.

15. Reflection: Regularly reflect on your experiences and interactions. This introspection can provide valuable insights into your behavior and how you can improve.

Remember, being yourself is not a destination but a continuous process. It's about being true to your values and beliefs, and expressing them in a way that is respectful to both yourself and others.

read more >>

Part 2 Dealing with OthersBe honest and open. ... Don't compare yourself to others. ... Stop caring about how people perceive you. ... Stop being a people-pleaser. ... Surround yourself with positive people. ... Learn the difference between intimidating, sarcastic, or conniving comments and well-intended constructive criticism.read more >>