Authentic Self

"Distinguishing authenticity from deception- at any stage of life- requires the ability to access and understand your emotions, desires, and values. But the more advanced practice of choosing authenticity over social acceptance requires something more: you must tell yourself and your intimate others the truth, all of it, as deep as you can, especially when it's difficult. What you express is from the heart and intended to serve both yourself and others. You must adopt the practice of making all your actions align with what you know to be emotionally and spiritually true."

-An excerpt from Soulcraft: Crossing into the Mysteries of Nature and Psyche by Bill Plotkin

The following video is an interview with Plotkin. It's quite interesting and he presents some really significant ideas about developing an authentic self.