The art of being yourself | Caroline McHugh | TEDxMiltonKeynesWomen

Recent questions

• What is a True Mirror?

  A True Mirror, invented by John and Catherine Walters, reflects an accurate image by using two mirrors at right angles without a seam. Looking into a True Mirror can be disorienting as it shows your true appearance, including any asymmetries like tilted heads or uneven features. The True Mirror experience can trigger memories and reveal details about oneself that may have gone unnoticed for years. The difference between a regular mirror and a True Mirror is that the latter prompts self-revelation rather than seeking reassurance about one's appearance.

• How can one achieve success?

  Successful individuals are those who have embraced their unique gifts and utilized them to achieve their goals, regardless of their field of work. Individuality is crucial, as each person possesses a unique note they were meant to sing, and embracing this uniqueness is key to success. The goal in life is not to imitate others but to excel at being oneself, as authenticity is valued over conformity. Children and elderly individuals excel at being themselves due to their lack of self-consciousness or societal pressures.

• What is the "I complex" model?

  The "I complex" model distinguishes between superiority, inferiority, and interiority complexes, with interiority being a state of uncomparative self-awareness. Interiority allows individuals to operate from a position of self-awareness without the need for external validation or comparison, leading to a liberating and authentic way of living. Your identity is not a patchwork of experiences and influences, but rather a unique representation of yourself. There are different aspects of your identity: the external perception of you by others, your wish image of how you want to be seen, your adaptive personality that evolves over time, and the unchanging core of who you are.

• How can one be true to themselves?

  Understanding the power of context is crucial in being yourself authentically. Gender-specific issues like "approval addiction" can hinder being true to yourself, especially for women. Being perception-free is essential, and tuning into your wish image can help you achieve that. Embracing change and growth is vital, avoiding stagnation and repeating the same experiences. Intervals of possibility are moments in life that offer opportunities for significant change, often catalyzed by catastrophic events.

• What is the importance of connecting with one's inner voice?

  Your life should be your message, reflecting who you are at your core, beyond external judgments and societal labels. Connecting with your inner voice can lead to remarkable achievements, even in the face of challenges or limitations. Developing equanimity and humility is key to finding balance and inner strength amidst external circumstances. Emphasizing the impact of personal pronoun focus on life speed and richness highlights the significance of staying true to oneself and embracing authenticity.