I often discuss with clients the need to find the
authentic self, to act, not from the place of hurt child or out of control adult, but from a place of authenticity. It’s
not an easy place to find, never mind hold onto especially when we are in the
middle of an argument or painful situation. We know it when we find it though,
for it creates response, rather than reaction. It feels solid and safe and
rather than inviting attack it allows both ourselves and all others with whom
we are communicating the space to breathe and create positively.
When we are being authentic, we are not chucking grenades
from behind our protective barriers established since childhood. We are not
acting under the influence of a faulty belief pattern that says for instance “Don’t
rock the boat” “Always win, never fail” or very commonly, “I am not worthy.” We are not trying
to gauge what someone or some particular situation requires us to be, but
rather connecting with the truth behind the situation and within ourselves. Not
easy to do occasionally, never mind consistently. But there is help out there.
Robert Rabbin is an author who used to live in Australia
but has now returned to his native United States. His latest book, which is
promoted by his blog, is called The Authenticity Accelerator. In it he
identifies the following 5 Principles – 10 words for authentic living:
- Be Present
- Pay Attention
- Listen Deeply
- Speak Truthfully
- Act Creatively
Robert says of the 5 Principles, “I
have field tested them for many years, in more circumstances and conditions
than I can remember, while travelling throughout the world. They work. They take
you straight to the wellspring of revelation, profound insight and magical
action. The rest is up to you; after all you have to self-author your own
authentic life.”
