There are a myriad of things that can keep us up at night and make our souls restless. From nagging life-situations to the deeper more pressing life-circumstances, the net effect can be a life that lacks inner peace. We can’t control what life throws at us; however, there are powerful things we can do to live in abundant joy in the midst of chaos. Join us as Dr. Vikki Johnson shares her perspective on how we can become our authentic selves and achieve real, lasting “soul wealth”.
(Dr. Vikki on the relationship between authenticity and self-mastery.)
We talk a lot about “keeping it real”. Yet how “real” are we with others, or even ourselves? The truth is, research shows that we are more likely to conform if our true selves conflict with social norms. Simply put, we are often more loyal to social conventions than our authentic selves. Worse, when we do so, we feel more authentic.
Perhaps you disagree. If so, think of the last time you agreed to do something you really didn’t want to do because you felt it was what was expected of you. Or, what about when we avoid specific conversations when we know our position is contrary to popular opinion?
I had some doubts about my own authenticity based on this research. So, Nia and I decided to take an authenticity quiz. According to the test’s architect, the Institute of Conscious Living, being more authentic results in an increase in personal power, more loving relationships, greater financial success, better health and an increased likelihood of living your dream life. If that’s true, it seems to be worth the risk of possibly offending a person or two to stand in your own truth.
Surprisingly, Nia and I both received high scores. My guess is that there is a correlation between our “out-of-the-box” natures (and life choices) and high authenticity quotients.
Still, although it was a fun tool, the reality is that life is not as simplistic as some of the test questions. And we are probably more consistent in some areas of life than others. I catch myself dancing on the edges of conformity from time to time, especially if my authentic choice might hurt someone I deeply care about. Nia is still transitioning into adulthood, so I imagine that trying to balance her emerging adult power with the respectful childhood conditioning she received occasionally creates conflict for her. So, it’s an on-going personal growth space…for both of us.
When you add uncertain times and life stressors, remaining true to yourself can become even more complicated. That’s why we were excited to have Dr. Vikki Johnson join us for a self-mastery conversation on how we can become even more authentic and remain so even during more chaotic situations and life seasons.
Through her book, Soul Wealth, and our tea talk, Dr. Vikki shared some beneficial nuggets that we just had to share. What began as an idea for a chat about authenticity expanded to include four other keys to living a life that is in alignment with who we are: vision, compassion, abundance, and legacy. It was a frank and intriguing discussion that we felt was expansion inspiring.
IN TODAY’S CONVERSATION WE DISCUSS:
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