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I try to make authenticity my number one goal when I go…

“I try to make authenticity my number one goal when I go into a situation where I’m feeling vulnerable. If authenticity is my goal and I keep it real, I never regret it. I might get my feelings hurt, but I rarely feel shame. When acceptance or approval becomes my goal, and it doesn’t work out, that…” quote by Brené Brown
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““I try to make authenticity my number one goal when I go into a situation where I’m feeling vulnerable. If authenticity is my goal and I keep it real, I never regret it. I might get my feelings hurt, but I rarely feel shame. When acceptance or approval becomes my goal, and it doesn’t work out, that can trigger shame for me: “I’m not good enough.” If the goal is authenticity and they don’t like me, I’m okay. If the goal is being liked and they don’t like me, I’m in trouble.””

Brené Brown

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Prioritize authenticity over approval; being true reduces shame, even if disliked

In simple terms: Be authentic, not people pleasing

Key Takeaway

Choose authenticity over acceptance

Themes

vulnerability authenticity self‑esteem

Mood

courageous introspective

Type

motivational psychological

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • dating
  • team meetings
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

self‑compassion social anxiety personal boundaries

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does authenticity become selfish?
  • How to balance honesty with kindness?
A Different Perspective

Authenticity may cause relational friction

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