Authenticity shines as a beacon of true human connection in a world full of digital connections and fragile interactions. A key component of long-lasting relationships is authenticity, which is defined as being true to oneself and expressing emotions that are consistent with one’s inner values. Here are seven ways to embrace and cultivate authenticity if you want to create genuine connections in your romantic relationships:
1. Explore Your Inner Values
Self-awareness is the first step toward authenticity. Investigate your deepest beliefs, aspirations, and feelings. Recognize your priorities and how they affect the way you think and act. Spend some time reflecting and learning about yourself. Explore your inner world by observing your thoughts and feelings with compassion and curiosity. You’ll develop a better understanding of your authentic self and how it affects your interactions as a result of this journey.
2. Foster Mutual Validation
Encourage mutual validation because it strengthens healthy relationships. According to research, genuine self-disclosure flourishes in interactions where partners support and validate one another. Make sure that partners are respected and that open communication is valued.
3. Challenge Power Imbalances
Perceived imbalances in power may hinder authenticity. The development of an authentic connection becomes difficult if one partner feels afraid to express themselves or feels like others are in control. Make sure both partners have the freedom to express themselves without fear of consequences and address any power imbalances in the relationship.
4. Work on Your Self-worth
According to the research, authenticity and self-worth are intertwined. Develop a positive sense of self-worth and understand how important being authentic is for your well-being. You’re more likely to express your true self when you feel you are worthy.
5. Prioritize Emotional Well-Being
Authenticity and emotional well-being are mutually exclusive. Create an environment where everyone can express their emotions without fear of being judged. Recognize that open discussions about feelings can promote greater comprehension and development.
6. Practice Authentic Living
According to Wood et al. (2008), authentic living is an essential aspect of authenticity. This entails coordinating your actions with your internal principles. In your interactions with your partner(s) and in your pursuits, behave in a way that is consistent with your true self.
7. Cultivate Acceptance and Self-Reflection
According to Wood et al. (2008), authenticity also entails accepting outside influences while remaining true to oneself. Reflect on yourself to learn how outside influences might affect your authenticity. Aim to strike a balance between external factors and your true desires.
Although the road to authenticity is not always easy, the effort is certainly worthwhile. Intimacy and a strong sense of connection are fostered by authenticity in romantic relationships. As you embark on this journey, remember that authenticity is not a one-way street. Create a space where everyone can express themselves freely and encourage your partner(s) to do the same. Authenticity in romantic relationships can be an effective remedy in a world where masks and pretences frequently rule. Encourage your partner(s) to embrace who they truly are and yourself as you grow a relationship based on sincere feelings, common goals, and mutual respect.
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Seray Soyman is working as a Clinical Psychosexologist within the Willingness team, providing psychosexual education and sexual support sessions, as well as delivering training and workshops. She has a master’s degree in Clinical Psychosexology from the Sapienza University of Rome. Seray’s research interests are sexual communication, sex-positive behaviour, LGBTQIA+ studies, and sexual health.
References
Brunell, A. B., Kernis, M. H., Goldman, B. M., Heppner, W., Davis, P., Cascio, E. V., & Webster, G. D. (2010). Dispositional authenticity and romantic relationship functioning. Personality and Individual Differences, 48(8), 900-905.
Neff, K. D., & Suizzo, M. A. (2006). Culture, power, authenticity and psychological well-being within romantic relationships: A comparison of European American and Mexican Americans. Cognitive Development, 21(4), 441-457.
Wickham, R. E. (2013). Perceived authenticity in romantic partners. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 49(5), 878-887.
Wood, A. M., Linley, P. A., Maltby, J., Baliousis, M., & Joseph, S. (2008). The authentic personality: A theoretical and empirical conceptualization and the development of the Authenticity Scale. Journal of counseling psychology, 55(3), 385-399.