You be you

“Forget popularity; focus on sincerity. Do what you do, not for applause, but because it is what is right for you. Practice respecting yourself and becoming a reliable part of your own support system.” ~Angel Chernoff, Marc and Angel Hack Life

The word “popularity” still sends me back down Memory Lane to junior high school. And today’s quote from Marc and Angel got me thinking about the difference between sincerity and popularity.

When we focus on being popular, we value the number of friends we have rather than the quality of their character, or their compatibility. Likewise, when we try to stay “on trend” with our creative projects, we risk lowering the quality and authenticity of our work. Popularity involves constant striving for approval and applause — no matter how shallow or insincere it seems. Popularity exhausts us. Sincerity nurtures.

When we speak and live our own truth, we might risk alienating others who disagree. But sincerity always earns self-respect and healthy, authentic relationships. ~CL