We often engage in activities that seem to bring us joy and fulfillment, yet we find ourselves merely going through the motions. Whether it is work, family, vocation, responsibilities, or hobbies, we all have moments when we feel out of alignment with who we truly are. Sometimes, it’s subtle, an underlying feeling that something is off. Other times, it’s louder, manifesting as persistent sadness, irritability, or a sense of emptiness. Your authentic self thrives when you honor your values and passions, but when those values and passions are suppressed, life can feel overwhelming and unfulfilling.
Admitting or recognizing this can be challenging, given the many stressors in the world that can deter us from the true source. I have been there, performing duties and responsibilities while ignoring my inner voice and silencing my inner discomfort, only to later reflect and realign with my authentic self. If you are unsure whether you are living authentically, here are 10 signs that your authentic self might be drowning:
1- You feel like something is missing
There’s a quiet and lingering feeling of emptiness inside, even when life looks “good” on the outside. You can’t pinpoint it, and your search is endless. Don’t just fill the void; find the why of your void!
2- You experience deep, unexplained sadness
It’s just there; it comes and goes without a convincing explanation. It stays, sometimes without a clear cause, as if your soul is quietly asking for attention. Listen to the cry of your soul!
3- You are easily irritated or frustrated,
You find that small annoyances feel magnified; they signal that your inner voice is being ignored. Don’t get me wrong, there is a lot that can be annoying, but how’s your ability to shake them off and go on to be happy? Choose and ignore as you need!
4- You become a chameleon
You change, adapt, and become based on the outside world by silencing your inner voice, your true self. I am not talking about being flexible and adaptable; these are valuable skills to foster. I am talking about all those times you find yourself being a different person in each environment you are in. Don’t shrink; bloom!
5- You struggle with saying No
You often say yes when you want to say no and prioritize others’ expectations over your own. You feel guilty saying no as you say “yes” while your soul screams “No.” Stop the internal tantrum and say no!
6- You struggle to make decisions
It is essential to pause, think, reflect, or pray, and research before making a decision. However, when you find yourself stuck, frozen, or overthinking and second-guessing even the simplest task, something has shifted in you. Oftentimes, making decisions leads to stress and overwhelm. Reach for your inner self!
7- You have a constant inner conflict
You feel a constant internal debate about your reactions and what you should have said or done. Your mind says one thing, your body says another. You feel pulled in two directions. Nurture internal calm!
8- You feel disconnected from your passions
You know what brings you joy, makes your eyes sparkle, and squeezes your heart, yet you are so unbothered by them now. Hobbies, dreams, or activities that used to excite you now feel like chores. Fuel your passions!
9- You feel guilty for wanting more
A part of you sadly believes you’re not allowed to take up space or have big desires. You shut down your desire for growth, change, progress, and becoming your best self in a nutshell. Make space to be and become!
10- You feel like an observer in your own life
It seems as though life is happening to you rather than through you. You may feel forgetful of an event or be in disbelief that you actually lived a situation or a season in your life. Take control!
If these signs resonate, it’s not a failure; it’s a signal! Your authentic self is calling for attention, care, and space to breathe. Start small: honor your feelings, reflect on your values, your faith, what matters most, and take one step toward aligning your life with your true self. Every step counts, and your authentic self is screaming to be rescued, waiting to be reclaimed. Remind yourself of who you are, not the titles that hold, nor the various hats that you wear. Answer this question: Who am I when nothing else stands, or nothing else matters?
If any of this touched something inside you, you’re not alone. I’d love for you to join me on this journey. Sign up today to receive a gentle mini-guide to help you reconnect with your authentic self and begin to Live2BYou!
With warmth,
Jasleyv
Writer. Seeker. Believer in little blessings.
🌿 Live fully. Be true. Be you.
This really resonated with me. Sometimes it’s like “I’m fine”, but something doesn’t feel fine. Thanks for this.
Hi Alejandra,
I am glad that this resonates with you. I know that feeling well. Even when we say ‘I’m fine,’ it’s important to honor what’s really going on inside. Noticing it is the first step, and each small step forward helps us move toward clarity and growth.
Wow, this is so on point, and I can remember feeling myself drowning the beginning of this year! I really had to step away and take a break to refocus and regain control.
I love this statement and I so agree: these signs aren’t failure, just a signal to breathe again, regain that faith and honor your feelings indeed!
These are all excellent points. I think we’ve all been in this place, and so many are there right now. It’s important to step back and take stock of your life to see where you are.
EVERYONE needs to read this, bookmark it, and read it again. I have felt this way in the past, and it can really make life miserable.
It’s not a failure but a sign is important. Many of us can get overwhelmed, but as you say fuel your passion, it’s a must.
Hi Barnie R, Absolutely! Passion thrives best when we give ourselves permission to breathe.
This is a really great list to really make you stop and reflect before the year is over on where you are as a person. Sometimes I have these feelings, but I also know that this is a time for me to slow down and improve.
Hi Ebony, Yes, sometimes overwhelm is a sign that something we care deeply about is asking for attention, just in a healthier way.
That feeling of constantly changing yourself for other people is something I bet everyone deals with.
Hi Kat, It really can sneak up on us, can’t it? So often we don’t even notice we’re changing ourselves to fit what others want, until we pause and realize how much of ourselves we’ve tucked away. You’re not alone in feeling this.
When you mention about “saying yes” too often, it’s like ringing a bell.
so easy to lose yourself that way. I’ve been working on setting boundaries 🙂
Hello Knycx,
Saying yes too often can sneak up on us. It’s a tough habit to break, but pausing and honoring your own limits is so important.
This post really spoke to me. The way you describe the quiet signs of feeling out of touch with who you truly are is so relatable and insightful. Thanks for encouraging us to pause, reflect, and take steps toward reconnecting with our authentic selves.
Hi Jerry,
I appreciate your thoughtful words. Slowing down and staying present is such an important part of growth, and I’m grateful this reminder connected with you.
I think feeling drained all the time can be a strong sign your true self is struggling to show up. Recognising that tiredness might mean deeper imbalance feels meaningful.
Hi Bedabrata,
Yes, I agree. It’s such a common experience, yet it can feel so isolating. Taking time to pause helps us come back to ourselves.
This really resonated, especially the people-pleasing and constant busyness signs. A gentle reminder to pause and check in with ourselves.
Hi Sonia,
Thank you for taking the time to reflect and share. People-pleasing and staying constantly busy are things so many of us carry without realizing it. I hope this pause brings you a little more clarity and kindness toward yourself.
Thanks for sharing this insightful post, very detailed explained each situations & circumstances. It’s not easy at times when we are burn out & in stress. So recognise & acknowledge it to find solution is important . Cheers SiennyLovesDrawing
Hi SiennyLovesDrawing,
Glad this spoke to you! Stress and burnout can be overwhelming, but acknowledging them is the start of finding balance and solutions.
I guess everyone struggles with these things at a given point in our lives. I have always found it hard to say no, but sometimes you just have to
Hi Renata, I sure have be there too. Saying no is uncomfortable but sometimes it’s the kindest thing we can do for ourselves.