Is the public version of you the real you?

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.

Corey Richason

Yes. The public version of me is the real me. What you see in my business is the same guy outside of it. I’m straightforward, a little sarcastic, and I don’t fake a spa voice to sound soothing. That matters because trust is everything in this work. If someone is going to put themselves in my hands, they deserve the real thing. Read more>>

Julie Moreno

What you see is truly what you get. I’m in the public eye quite a bit, but I’m the same person at home as I am in the café. My husband and I have five kids living with us, and we cherish having them at home for as long as we can. Read more>>

Jill Roberts

My goal in life is to love others well. I hope that my authenticity always shows through and gives value to others. I am a simple person and feel that I show who the real me is at all times. Read more>>

 Stephanie Walker

The public version of me is really the real me. What you see is what you get. I am often on social media looking like I was just hit with a hurricane- hair a mess, no make up, dirt under the fingernails, and sweating like a pig. I used to think that I couldn’t post until everything was picture perfect. Read more>>

Lorraine Barker

Actually, not really. When I have my networking hat on, my business persona, my social act, I tend to be more bubbly and feminine and very outspoken with others. When I am in public I try to put on a public version of myself that is personable, approachable, and fun. Read more>>

Sean Golightly

It’s all ‘the real you.’ Identity doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Read more>>