This may be a stretch, but the truth is that you haven't taken your first real breath until you've had a moment of utter and complete clarity. Clarity is the gift of life that keeps on giving. Clarity refers to a state of clearness, coherence, or transparency in thoughts, ideas, communication, or perception. It implies having a precise understanding or a distinct mental image of something, free from confusion or ambiguity. Clarity allows for a high level of understanding, making information or concepts easily comprehensible and accessible. And God if you're listening, please go heavy on the free from confusion for me! 

Clarity about what you like, what you stand for, (and against), where you want to be, and most importantly, WHO YOU ARE emerge as necessary keys for life lived in abundance. After penning tons of memoirs, I've watched the manifestation of clarity over and over again. When my clients gain clarity about who they are, they also discover authenticity. Authenticity leads to a lack of apology to the world about who you are and how you show up. The series of events and decisions we have made in our lives are often accompanied by some form of guilt that takes up unnecessary space in our heads and our hearts, denying us the opportunity to thrive. Guilt can be suffocating, but we all deserve better. As the saying goes, the only way out is through. And by through, I mean through a deep understanding of your story. Each event that has occurred in your life is a valuable puzzle piece that interconnects with the others. Together, they form a beautiful portrait of your life. Separate, it's hard to know what the picture should be. This is why it is imperative that we begin to assemble the pieces while relieving ourselves of the weight and burden associated with our untold stories. 

If you need more convincing, here are 3 reasons why authenticity is essential:

1. Self-Discovery and Personal Growth: Authenticity allows individuals to explore their true identities, values, and passions. By embracing who they truly are and expressing themselves honestly, people can uncover their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for personal growth. Authenticity enables individuals to engage in self-reflection, learn from their experiences, and make choices aligned with their true selves. This journey of self-discovery and personal growth is vital for leading a fulfilling and purposeful life.

2. Meaningful Relationships: Authenticity forms the foundation for genuine and meaningful connections with others. When individuals are authentic, they create an environment of trust, honesty, and openness. By being true to themselves, they attract like-minded people who appreciate and accept them for who they are. Authenticity fosters deeper connections, as it allows individuals to be vulnerable, share their true thoughts and feelings, and establish authentic bonds. In contrast, when people are inauthentic, they may build relationships based on false pretenses or mask their true selves, leading to shallow connections and a lack of fulfillment.

3. Mental and Emotional Well-Being: Authenticity is essential for maintaining mental and emotional well-being. When individuals suppress or deny their authentic selves, it can result in internal conflict, stress, and emotional distress. Living inauthentically often leads to feelings of dissatisfaction, emptiness, or a sense of not living a genuine life. On the other hand, embracing authenticity promotes self-acceptance, self-esteem, and a sense of fulfillment. By aligning actions and decisions with one's true values and desires, individuals experience greater satisfaction, reduced stress, and an overall improved sense of well-being.

In summary, authenticity is necessary for self-discovery, personal growth, building meaningful relationships, and maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Embracing authenticity allows individuals to lead more fulfilling lives and create genuine connections with others.

As of today, I hope that come hell or high water, you resolve to set it free. Remember, the only way out is through.

Based On A True Story,

Ardre Orie, Celebrity Memoirist X Screenwriter