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Cathy Chen's avatar

Thanks for sharing your story and being so vulnerable with us. I appreciate your courage! :) I definitely have my own version of that too. I believe we all do. Some of us are just still scared to bare it all, because performing is a form of survival strategy now that I think about it. I remember growing up I’m always drawn to people who exudes so much confidence in being silly, funny, a-bit shameless even, as if they’re not swayed by anyone’s opinions of them. If it’s a boy I would almost definitely have a crush on him. If it’s a girl I would definitely get secretly jealous. Anyways thanks for this honest piece :) your courage and vulnerability is inspiring ♥️♥️♥️

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Akanksha Priyadarshini's avatar

Thank you for sharing this, Cathy. It really means a lot to hear that you could relate, and I completely agree, performing is a survival strategy. I also relate to being drawn to people who can just be themselves so unapologetically. I’ve felt exactly the same way, admiring that freedom and ease.

It’s comforting to know we’re not alone in feeling this way. Thank you for supporting and encouraging me to keep sharing my story.♥️

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Stephanie Spaulding's avatar

Thank you for sharing this Akanksha! I can relate to this so much. It is a wall that has been built and I honestly did not realize it until recently. This is part of why I started my self-care journey and I commend you for working through your journey. Very inspirational!

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Novanita's avatar

Oof, I felt this.

I spent years performing for people who didn’t even see me.

But last year? Life dragged me through the mud, then handed me my wings ✨

I’m out here flying. Finally. 🕊️

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Minal Patel's avatar

I remember being laughed at for finding the full moon unbelievably beautiful, and slowly numbing my spontaneous love of nature over time. I remember being “too emotional” and too much. I am still trying to find my way back

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Lizziebeth's avatar

Thank you for making your writing accessible! Your story so closely aligns with mine. I'm trying to shed the mask but am not sure what my authentic self even is. I'm trying to set boundaries and give honest responses without feeling guilty when others don't expect or like my responses. It's not easy; thank you for your words of advice and encouragement.

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Akanksha Priyadarshini's avatar

You’re doing incredibly brave work by questioning old patterns and trying to reconnect with your real self. I totally relate to not always knowing what authenticity even looks like after so many years of wearing a mask. You’re not alone in this, it really is a process, and it takes so much courage to set boundaries and be honest. I’m glad my words could offer even a little encouragement. I'm here rooting for you as you navigate this journey.

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Nelian Kar's avatar

This is the foundation of a good life. Honestly, there’s nothing more to add, the article says it all. Thanks for sharing.

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Akanksha Priyadarshini's avatar

I’m really glad you feel that. Thank you for reading.

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