Our lives emcompass all kinds of adaptations, adjustments and accommodations. Influenced by social networks and illusive standards of success and happiness, our identity and behavior can be ever changing. The need for approval, to fit in and be accepted, can be exhausting by the diffent roles played in various settings. Living up to external expectations such as maintaining a suitable image and being excessively ambitious, can result in losing yourself. Ambition ignites creativity and innovation, but in excess, can be detrimental. Healthy ambition helps us maintain balance and allow natural unfoldment.

Life is experienced through the lens of core beliefs, which are assumptions about ourselves, others, and outlook on life. These beliefs, some formed during early childhood, may be limiting and do not reflect the truth of who we really are. Our true self is obscured by external identities and limiting beliefs that should be exposed, acknowledged and transformed. Our true, authentic self, is unchanging and the moral compass that guides our thoughts, feelings and behaviors resulting in satisfactory outcomes. Being tue to yourself is living by your own standards and not compromising your moral values nor worrying about what others think. Do what really matters and what is really important. You can be true to yourself by knowing your worth, acknowledging your feelings, nurturing your inner child and developing your support system. Dr. Jean Marie highlights each.

Our Love In Action Practice focuses on knowing your worth and being in integrity with yourself. Pay attention to what makes you feel comfortable and uncomfortable. Our true feelings can be guiding forces. For example, if you are given a task that compromises your integrity, how does it make you feel? Explore your feelings. Do you feel conflict or strife? Do you move forward making a decision to honor the request even though you have doubts or do you honor your truth? Take time to give thought before responding. Conside rappropriate responses and reflect on the possible outcomes. What response makes you feel good about yourself?

Feel free to share your insights and experiences: Email: jean72farish@yahoo.com

Dr. Jean Marie closes with her excerpt on "Inner Truth".