We all think we’re being real—whether in public or in private—but the deeper challenge is questioning whether we truly know our real selves at all. In any case, even when we know ourselves we might face various pressures that push us to fit in or not cause trouble – so even the most well-intentioned person might struggle to always be 100% real in public. Sometimes the simplest questions are actually the most complex. Thankfully, we have some wonderful members of the community who offered to share their thoughts on this challenging question.
Jess Curtis
To my own success — and sometimes my own demise — yes. The public version of me is the real me. I try to show up as my full, authentic self so others feel empowered doing the same. That’s why my social media is a mix of local artists, bird puns, and small-business shoutouts. Read more>>
Gloria Hinton-Johnson
Yes — what you see is truly who I am. The same woman you see on social media is the same woman behind the scenes. I don’t wear a mask or perform for an audience; I speak from a real place. Read more>>
Shailyn Ramsey
The simple answer is YES. I am exactly who I say I am. I am that same person online as I am in person. I live as my authentic self and I don’t pretend to be someone that I am not. Things done in the dark will always get revealed to the light. Read more>>
Tara Coley
Yes!! I’m 100% my authentic self. What you see in my Instagram videos or on TikTok is exactly who I am in real life—happy, expressive, and deeply grateful. I truly enjoy spending quality time and giving back to my community whenever I can. Read more>>
NiSi
The public version of me is definitely a real part of me — but not the whole picture. What people see is the woman who shows up with warmth, confidence, creativity, and a genuine love for uplifting others. That’s real. Read more>>
Jessica Perry
This is a great question. I personally feel like no matter who you are, in different spaces you show up differently. That does not necessarily mean you aren’t showing up as the real you, you are just showcasing a different side of you. This is true for myself. The public version of me is the real me no matter where I am. Read more>>
