The Importance of Authenticity in Relationships

One of the most damaging behaviors in any relationship is to demonstrate a lack of authenticity. To be authentic is to be true. It is the belief instilled in a relationship that we are dealing directly with each other. There is no pretense in the communications between us. We are not propping up a representative word or gesture that is incongruent with our true feelings.

Authenticity, by this definition, is not complete transparency. It is not that we must open the window to our soul entirely without reserving space for our own private thoughts and opinions. We must-nearly at all times-preserve our right to protect our inner thoughts and feelings from public inspection. This is critical self-space, reserved for reflection.

Authenticity is not obtained between people because they present to each other always, everything that can be known about them. Authenticity is achieved when what we choose to present to each other is believable as a genuine reflection of us. It is in tune with our beliefs, morality and better judgement. We are not sacrificing something sacred in order to put forth a false representation of ourselves. We are not attempting to deceive or hide.

Authenticity in relationships is a pattern. It is cumulative. In order for relationships to thrive with authenticity, we must communicate with each other consistently with only truth…truth that is appropriate for each unique moment that we share.