Are You Afraid to be Truthful?

How to get past your own fears

Sep 10, 2024

Available for iOS and Android

What is it about facing the truth that scares us?

From our earliest memories, we’re taught to be honest and forthcoming in our relationships with others. We’re admonished for telling lies and cautioned against concealing knowledge or information that could impact another’s perceptions or decisions in a negative way.

We’re encouraged to “just be ourselves,” because without fully revealing our thoughts, no one would know who we truly are.

But despite those early admonitions, few of us practice full disclosure. We hold back, often presenting a public persona that is very different from our genuine selves.

And it begs the question …

How did our inclination to withhold the truth — to use deception if necessary — evolve into common behavior in the way we communicate with others?

For many of us, we learned by example — from watching, observing, and listening to conversations of others. And all too often, deciphering the truth became a challenge — one requiring more skill or knowledge than we had at our disposal.

As a result, many of us hide our authentic selves under lock and key

We cautiously restrict others from learning our real feelings, thoughts, and desires. Think of it as a personal cloaking device.

And while we often use this strategy to protect ourselves from embarrassment, shame, or to preserve our dignity, it can often prevent us from reaching our full potential — especially when we have the opportunity to explore life’s possibilities and enjoy the benefits of achieving our personal best.

The signs of positivity and optimism are all around us — if we’re ready to recognize them.

Whether in the form of an unexpected opportunity, a potential new relationship, or strengthening the bond with someone you already know, embracing the power of being your authentic self will result in a more genuine and rewarding journey to living a fulfilling life.

Searching for truth is the easy part. The real work starts after you discover it.

In health & happiness,

Jill Reid

Jill Reid is the author of Real Life, Discover Your Personal Truth, Life in Small Doses, and Please God, Make Me A Writer. Her books, videos, and newsletter explore life, relationships, self-improvement, health, and personal success strategies for working through the challenges of everyday life.

If you enjoyed this article, sign up for a paid subscription and get unlimited access to my weekly Premium Content articles and archived posts. Click here for info!