The performed version of you is exhausting.

Maintaining a version of yourself that isn't real takes energy. The real version is both easier and more attractive.

Authenticity filters for the right people.

When you're real, the people who respond positively are actually compatible with you. Performing attracts people who like the performance.

People can feel the difference.

Real has a texture that performed doesn't. You can't always name it, but you can feel when someone is actually showing up.

Your quirks are not problems to fix.

The specific, unusual, slightly weird things about you are what make you memorable. Generic is forgettable.

Just be you — everything else is too hard.

The simplest, most effective thing you can do in any conversation is show up as yourself. Full stop.

Show up as you →