Jennifer Fontilus on
SHOWING UP AS YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF
NAME + INSTAGRAM
Jennifer Fontilus. @projectjen
WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
I’m from Frederick, MD.
WHAT DOES AUTHENTICITY MEAN TO YOU?
Authenticity is a blend of courage, self‑esteem, and self‑worth.
WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU SHOW UP AUTHENTICALLY IN YOUR OWN LIFE?
Like the majority of other women in the U.S, I deal with Imposter Syndrome, so in team settings I try to remind myself that each member’s purpose is to bring their own unique experience and expertise to the table and that mine is just as valuable as my peers. That way I’m able to confidently offer my input.
DID YOU ALWAYS SHOW UP LIKE THAT? OR DID IT COME WITH TIME?
I believe that authenticity, just as self‑love, is a life‑long journey that begins with accepting your imperfections and knowing who you are. Some things that help me on that journey are spending time alone and journaling. While journaling I'm able to thoroughly explore my morals and what or who has shaped those beliefs. After establishing my personal values, then I'm able to create and enforce boundaries pertaining to them.
WHY DO YOU THINK SOME PEOPLE FEAR AUTHENTICITY?
I would say that people fear rejection and prevent that feeling by assimilating.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE #1 BENEFIT TO LIVING AN AUTHENTIC LIFE?
Not feeling shame or guilt after decision making
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMONE STRUGGLING WITH THIS?
I would share the words of DJ Fannie Mae “Imagine being in a place where someone needed you and you weren't being your authentic self”
IF YOU COULD TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF ONE THING, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
You're doing just fine .. buy bitcoin!