Authenticity

I am still following the sign of Leo in the book “your zodiac soul”. The premise is that in Leo the soul learns to express itself authentically and it requires some contemplation on a few questions.

In what way do I try to hard to make an impression?

My “trying too hard” probably manifest in saying too easily “yes” . Even when I have the inner strenght to say “no”, I still often feel an inner struggle for saying no. I suppose I would like to keep everybody happy and it is not always possible.  I try hard to make an impression on people that will prevent us from becoming entangled in a difference or disagreement of some type. My gift to the world is to found synergy or win-win solutions and most of the times there are almost always a manner for getting a better solution that assists all parties. However, the reality is that it is not all the times and some times when the rift is just to wide, then conflict cannot be avoided. This is the point where I tend to “try to hard”.

How do others respond when I am authentically shining my light in the world?

I have always promoted the idea of living authentically although I also had to often question the degree to which I succeed in living authentically.  One probably think if you live authentically and shine that it is a good thing. The reality is that when you are at your best and you are not shy to show it then many people look at it with envy. You have to deal with the boastful that tries to outperform you….even if it is just in storytelling to the person that jsut simply hate you for something you can do well. In my own experience it is either these reactions or you get people that truly trust you because they can see that you are shining in an area that you have developed your skills. I have found that most people take time to trust you and they will initially test you to see if your skill is real. Words, alone, count for very little in the world if it is not supported by some action. That is why the Stoic principle to align your words with action is so important.  Authenticity can build trust but often people first have to travel through the valey of doubt.