In creating a business, in creating a brand, making something tangible and easy to explain, it is so hard to not look to others and straight up copy them. Seeing success, or at least what looks like success, and wanting it so badly stifles the creativity that I had when I began dreaming up Demure Birch Design. Not only would it be poor form to copy anyone's anything, but it would be a lie to myself and to prospective clients. It would be a disservice to those who are pushing me and cheering me on to be anything but myself.
Authenticity is key - one of the many things that was discussed at Making Things Happen. Once again, Lara Casey said it succinctly and well:
"Consider the opportunities that you are losing by not being authentic to the world."
This one hit me in the gut. Showing my true self, being authentic and sharing what matters most to me with my clients and with my loved ones is a scary and dangerous move. The thoughts immediately play out in my head. What if they don't like me? What if they change their minds? What if they disagree with my thoughts? What if they are not accepting?
And that is where the real human connection is made - in the vulnerability of authentic interaction. Getting a true glimpse of who a person is, sharing what drives you, communicating your core to others. This is the heart of true interaction that is authentic. But it takes a leap of faith and some real courage.
As a person who truly detests small talk, the point of being authentic really rang true to my core. As an introverted person, I thrive on deep conversations about ideas and things that people think about. Small talk bores me. It gives me nothing to latch on to, and it does nothing to spark my thoughts about how I relate to others in this wide world. But deep conversations, about life and love and the things that you hate and adore, and what changes you think should be made to the world? Those are just the best. Those talks tell me who you are. Those talks develop me as a person.
This is what being authentic is all about. Sure, small talk is never going to disappear. But I can't help but think that sometimes the small talk is really just nervousness about judgement from others coming out in word form. If we stick to the insignificant, we don't necessarily open ourselves up to the criticism or scrutiny of others. We stay safe. And the vulnerability of authenticity is so scary! Why would we venture there?
I need to venture there, and stay there because it feeds my heart and soul and lights my mind on fire. Authenticity and the deepness of people is amazing territory and I want to explore it all.
For my business, my authenticity is crucial to offering clients a person who cares deeply about their experience, and not just a person making a buck. Authenticity is where the love story comes out, the details spill forth, and the day is reflected back to you as, well, you. Not the perfect painting, but the imperfectly perfect reflection of love.
Love and Light,
Alyssa
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