5 Reasons why being honest is empowering
Honesty is not just about telling the truth to others but involves a much deeper, more self reflective practice: being honest with yourself. It feels as a collective of women, we are slowly being awakened to the idea that we can actually be honest with ourselves. And perhaps more importantly that this honestly and level of truth is uniquely ours, non negotiable and empowering.
Allowing ourselves to truly listen to the niggles, the intuition, the words whispered when we’re alone can be our strongest compass and pull us in the direction we are craving to follow. Truth and honesty is uncompromising and can feel like a sucker punch in the face at times; but it’s the wake up call we need.
1: The power of self-honesty
Self-honesty is a huge part of self-discovery. It requires a willingness to look inward, to confront one's fears, insecurities, and aspirations… and doing so without judgment. For many of us, this can be a really conflicting task because of the number of roles and expectations imposed by society, family, and our own self-imposed standards. Embracing self-honesty is the first step towards breaking free from these uncomfortable constraints.
2: The power of vulnerability
Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but in reality, it is a profound strength. Being vulnerable means showing up as your true self, imperfections and all. For women, who are often expected to be caretakers, nurturers, pillars of strength and every role in between, embracing vulnerability can be transformative.
I’m a complete fangirl of Brené Brown, a research professor and author. Her work emphasises that vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change. When you allow yourself to be vulnerable, you open up to new experiences and perspectives. This openness is crucial for self-discovery, as it allows you to explore parts of yourself that you might have previously hidden or ignored.
3: The power of saying no
Societal expectations can be a significant barrier to self-honesty and self-discovery. From a young age, women are often taught to prioritize the needs and opinions of others over their own. These expectations can create a disconnect between who you are and who you think you should be.
To overcome these societal pressures, it's essential to set boundaries and prioritise self-care. This doesn't mean disregarding your responsibilities but rather finding a balance that allows you to nurture your true self. It's okay to say no to things that don't align with your values or drain your energy. By setting boundaries, you protect your mental and emotional well-being, creating a space where your true self can thrive.
4: The power of self-discovery
Self-discovery is a continuous journey rather than a destination. It involves exploring your passions, understanding your strengths and weaknesses, and aligning your life with your core values. For women, this journey can be incredibly empowering, as it allows you to reclaim your identity and purpose.
One practical way to embark on this journey is through mindfulness and meditation. These practices help you stay present and connected to your inner self. They allow you to tune out the noise of external expectations and listen to your intuition. Over time, this can lead to profound insights and a deeper understanding of who you are.
5: The power of embracing change and growth
Honesty and self-discovery often lead to change, which can be both exciting and pretty scary. However, embracing change is an integral part of personal growth. It's essential to recognise that growth often requires stepping out of your comfort zone, taking risks, and making really difficult decisions.
Change might involve reevaluating your career path, ending toxic relationships, or adopting new habits that align with your authentic self. While these changes can be challenging, they are necessary for living a life that is true to who you are.
The journey towards honesty and self-discovery is a deeply personal and transformative process. For women, it involves peeling back the layers of societal expectations and embracing vulnerability, self-reflection, and change. By being honest with yourself and prioritising your true desires and values, you can embark on a path of self-discovery that leads to a more fulfilling and connected life.
If this resonates with you and you’d like to explore getting honest and making changes for yourself, let’s connect .
