In today's storyletter:

• to be really authentic is harder than most think
  
  

THOUGHTS

Bring Back Authenticity

There’s something about the word authentic that contradicts itself. We misuse it too often, throwing it around like it’s just another marketing buzzword. But in my opinion, authenticity isn’t a spectrum—it’s not something you can measure or compare. You either are, or you aren’t.

You can’t say you’re authentic, give me a BS explainer, and then walk away like a hero. We can smell it a mile away, and honestly? We like you less for it. Social media doesn’t allow it anymore.

I think it’s time I start holding people accountable. Or maybe I should share more content like this—I’m not sure what the right way is yet. But when done properly, we can all benefit from some real authenticity and a good hug.

When he appeared on the screen, he smiled and greeted me calmly.

"Before we start today’s session, I just wanted to say something. I didn’t want to cancel our call because I know how important these sessions are, but I also want to be upfront. If I seem a little off, it’s not because I’m uninterested or disrespectful—I just lost a very close friend, and I wanted you to know."

He thanked me, asked about her, and we spent the first few minutes talking about Eden. After that, the session flowed, and we got a lot done.

At the end, he thanked me again—for being authentic and upfront. He said it helped us both stay on the same frequency and made the session more productive.

When we use authenticity genuinely—not as a social flex—we learn to simply be. To acknowledge where we are, where our head is at, and how we feel.

When we’re vulnerable, there is no “other side.” It’s just us, standing there, hearts on our sleeves. And that’s okay.

I get it. We have to play strong in front of our boss, our colleagues, or while chasing the next big client. But when we let go, at least somewhere, magic happens.

Find a space where you can truly be yourself. Maybe it’s a social network where you hide behind an avatar, venting to strangers about how life sucks, how you hate your boss, or what’s holding you back from achieving your dream.

But please—somewhere, in some part of your life—be your true self. Not the polished version, not the highlight reel. Not just another fake doll we all know is a lie built for likes and money.

Your Challenge This Week:

I know most of you won’t do it—but here’s my challenge to you.

Write one post on LinkedIn that feels real. One that is truly authentic.

Share something we might not know about you, or a feeling you had—without the upside. No neatly wrapped lesson. Just a genuine moment.

I think you’ll be amazed by the reactions.

Feel free to send me the link—I’m ready to support you.

Are you ready to break the cycle?