Is the public version of you the real you?

We all think we’re being real—whether in public or in private—but the deeper challenge is questioning whether we truly know our real selves at all. In any case, even when we know ourselves we might face various pressures that push us to fit in or not cause trouble – so even the most well-intentioned person might struggle to always be 100% real in public. Sometimes the simplest questions are actually the most complex. Thankfully, we have some wonderful members of the community who offered to share their thoughts on this challenging question.

Brandon Thomas

Yes — it is. What people see publicly is the same person I am behind the scenes. I’m intentional about showing up honestly, whether I’m talking about health, business, or the uncomfortable parts of growth. Social media, for me, isn’t a performance — it’s a reflection. The videos, the conversations, the messaging all come from lived experience, not a script. Read more>>

Courtney Wolf

I hate to break it to folks, but what you see is what you get. So, yes. Unequivocally, yes. Read more>>

Lynn Brecht

Absolutely. I joke and blame it on being a Gemini, but I am true to a fault. What you see is what you get. I have strong opinions and I do not have much of a filter. Not sure if that’s good or bad for owning a business… but you will never question how I feel about something. Read more>>