Deciding to live authentically: Being Who You Are

Dedicated to my partner, family, and friends—thank you for being my unwavering support and reminding me every day that I am capable of the change I seek. I hope that I can remind you all of how powerful you truly are.

There’s a moment when you feel it... a pull, a shift, a deep knowing that something needs to change. It’s not always clear what needs to change, but you know deep down it’s time to take that next step.

I’ve learned that change doesn’t have to be overwhelming or immediate. It can be small, intentional adjustments that align with the truth of who we are. You don't have to reinvent yourself, step into the person you’ve always been meant to be or you know that you can be.

If you’re standing at a crossroads and wondering how to move forward, here are a few questions I’ve been asking myself to guide me along the way:

1. Where do I feel drained?

Look closely at the spaces, the people, and the situations that leave you feeling empty or small. We all have them, and often, it’s because we’re giving more than we’re receiving. It’s time to start setting boundaries and letting go of what no longer serves you. It's not about cutting people off; it’s about protecting your energy and making room for what lights you up.

2. Where do I feel alive?

The things, the moments, the people that make you feel fully yourself? That’s where you want to invest your energy. That’s your soul speaking to you, saying, “This is the path.” The more you pour into these spaces, the more you’ll find clarity and purpose. These are the places where your strength lies.

3. Who or what makes me feel small?

It’s hard to face, but sometimes we have people or situations in our lives that make us shrink, whether consciously or not. I’ve realized that I don’t have to stay in those spaces. You don’t have to either. Setting boundaries doesn’t mean you don’t love or respect people-it means you choose to honor yourself and protect your peace.

4. Who or what makes me feel powerful?

Pay attention to the people, the routines, the things that make you feel unstoppable, like you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. These are your anchors. These are the spaces where your power shines brightest. Lean into them. Let them fuel you.

Change doesn’t need to be a big, dramatic overhaul. Shift where your energy goes and making conscious choices to align with the life you want to live. When you stop shrinking and start showing up for yourself, you’ll see how everything begins to shift in ways you didn’t expect.

For me, embracing this kind of change has meant trusting myself more, leaning into the things that make me feel whole, and cutting out the noise that doesn’t serve me. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth every step.

If you’re feeling that nudge for something different, ask yourself these questions too. What needs to go, and what needs more of you? Trust that the answers will come when you let yourself hear them.

You already have everything you need to create the life that’s waiting for you. (I tell my daughter this constantly). Keep walking in that direction. You’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. :)