Living authentically is not selfish. In fact, it is necessary for being happy.

My account name includes the phrase, "Living a healthy, vibrant, and happy life in my own way." (I have since changed my account name.)

This contains the wish, may you lead a healthy and happy life in both mind and body forever by being your true self.

"Living authentically" feels like a very simple yet profound phrase.

In a nutshell,

That is what I believe.

🌱 What I think "living authentically" means:

✅ Choosing based on your own values

Instead of what someone else says you "should" do, choose what you feel you "want" to do or "want" to be.

✅ Not comparing yourself to others

Do not compare yourself to the success or happiness of those around you; cherish your own pace and your own goals.

✅ Accepting both your weaknesses and your strengths

You don't have to be perfect. Cherish your failures and weaknesses as "part of yourself."

✅ Valuing moments that fulfill your heart

Rather than money or status, accumulate moments where your heart feels, "I love this" or "This makes me happy."

✅ Not fearing change and allowing yourself to change

Instead of thinking "I must always stay the same," accept that you will change along with your age and environment.

👂 In my case, being honest with my inner voice

1. I quit my stable full-time job

I worked for a total of about 20 years in Tokyo and New Zealand, enjoying stable companies, stable salaries, and comprehensive benefits.
However, I was constantly struggling with the time crunch of working full-time while raising children, and feeling a vague sense of unease, wondering, 'Am I just going to keep getting older without anything changing?'

So, when I moved to Australia, I decided that I would no longer work full-time.

2. Trying a completely different job from office work

Since I had been doing office work for about 20 years, I wanted to do something completely different and physically active if I were to do something new.
So, I decided to work as a school lunch lady, something I had been interested in for a while.

Colleagues have even asked me, 'You had such a good job and a career, why are you doing this now??'
It's true that at this age, people tend to seek stability over change.
But more than money or a career, I wanted to do work that I loved and enjoyed.

My working hours are three days a week, from about 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM, which gives me plenty of time for myself.
My work-life balance is just right, and above all, I love my current job.

3. Sportswear has become my daily staple

Since I started living abroad, I have stopped caring about what others think compared to the past.
After moving to Australia, that feeling became even stronger, and my daily outfit has increasingly become sportswear (sports bras and yoga pants).
The reason is that it's very comfortable.

Wearing what I like and what feels good.

This is also to stay true to my own voice.

By the way, I love a brand called Lorna Jane which originated in Brisbane, Australia 🤗

Wearing clothes I love makes me feel very happy💖

4. My health consciousness has leveled up

Although I already had an exercise habit, by listening to my inner voice, my awareness of health has increased even further.
The reason I decided I didn't want to do desk work anymore is actually one of those reasons.

Even though I'm nearing 50, I also have the desire to wear my beloved Lorna Jane stylishly 😆, so I continue my daily strength training without fail.

When I exercise, not only does my body feel better, but my mental balance also improves.

Focusing on your body is the same as listening to your inner voice.

💡 YUKA's tips for living authentically

Looking back at what I've written, what I'm doing is, in the end, just doing things that make me

• have fun 😃

• feel happy 👍

• feel good 😊

It is something you can feel.
And it is about following those feelings.

As a result, I, have gained more space in both my mind and body, and have become able to enjoy my daily life.
I also think my body has become healthier than before.

Also, by pursuing things that feel fun, happy, and pleasant, I have become sensitive to things that feel uncomfortable, and have become able to view them objectively.

📔 Finally

“Living authentically” is not a completed state, but a way of life that you build day by day while engaging in dialogue with yourself.

Perhaps the concept of “authenticity” differs from person to person.

But, being able to live authentically = liking yourself.
If you can like yourself, there is no doubt that you will lead a fun life😊