Perception vs. Reality

What's really going on?

A few people have remarked to me recently that LinkedIn is like an echo chamber - with so much self-promotion. Other people have told me they limit LinkedIn - as it makes them feel stressed that they are not doing enough and it spikes their imposter syndrome (and these are some really impressive people saying this!)

We all know there is a really big gap between what is shared versus what is reality.

For those of you who know me, I like to have real conversations. Covering the good, the bad, the ugly, and everything in between.

I guess I'm at that age where you know the highs are offset by the lows. There is dark with the light. And that's OK - because it's part of life, and part of valuing the whole human experience.

In fact, we only learn how to be happy - when we know (and don't expect) everything to be perfect.

Experience has shown me that in the blink of an eye - things can just crumble. Fall apart. Be devastating and hard. Then sometimes the most incredible things just happen. Unexpected. Delightful.

Usually though it's a combination of both!

In the last week I've had conversations about:
- Being scared of dying
- Dealing with self-harm
- Scared of not finding a new job before money runs out
- Dating after divorce

I've also had conversations about:
- Creating a next-chapter life vision
- Enjoying a naughty puppy
- Falling in love...slowly
- Leaving a safe job to start their own business

Everyone is always dealing with a bit of everything. Sometimes we go through tougher "downs" and sometimes we are delighted and surprised with new, exhilarating "ups". But it's all there - mixed in together.

Authenticity is when we don't feel the need to pretend or show only the positive side, because we all experience "the good, the bad and the ugly."

When we accept that - we are free to just be, not pretend. Which creates a safe space for others to stop pretending.

I love having conversations with people about all of it (especially in the one conversation). Where you celebrate the good. Empathise with the hard. Laugh and / or cry. High five and hug.

It's whole. It's real

That's what I actually experience. That's what I want to share with others. And I know I can get through anything - when I'm surrounded by those who care.