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Across the wooden picnic table, my friend was talking.

But I wasn't listening.

I was trying to find the courage to tell my truth. I’d never told anyone before. If she responded badly, it would destroy me.

My heart pounded as I opened my mouth.

"Underneath everything inside me, there's just a steaming pile of dog shit. That's my core."

She looked at me. But she didn’t judge. Instead, she gave me space to speak. And the words poured out of me.

I explained that I had a mask for every situation: competent consultant, wise mother, supportive wife, funniest friend, nicest person in the checkout line.

I’d worn them for decades.

But I was bone-tired from pretending to be someone I wasn’t.

I told my friend this 15 years ago, and it was the start of an incredible journey. Because you can’t change what you don’t admit.

And that’s why I’m writing this to you, too, Reader.

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I was scared to write this email because I worried about what you might think. But my point is that we all hide parts of ourselves.

And we pay a heavy price.

Because you never get to be fully yourself. So you never connect deeply with the people around you. You spend so much time maintaining your mask, only to find that real relationships elude you.

Your “flaws” aren’t things to hide. They’re your stepping stones to authentic connection.

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And I appreciate how scary it can be.

Which is why I work with people who overthink so they can create the relationships they want.

So if you’d like to take a step toward authenticity, here’s my challenge to you today:

Tell me one thing about yourself that you’re scared to admit.

It's easier to start with a stranger.

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Sending you peace of mind, always,

Jenni

P.S. One big reason I was so scared to tell the truth about myself was fear of judgment. But you’ll find that dropping the mask is an immense relief.
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