Have you ever noticed how heavy it feels to pretend? To keep up an image, a role, or a “version” of yourself just so other people feel more comfortable? This week, we’re peeling those layers back and talking about what it really means to show up as you. No scripts. No masks. Just your beautifully unpolished, gloriously authentic self.

So grab your coffee (or tea, or whatever fuels your soul), and let’s dive in.

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While sipping my coffee this morning, I had to laugh at myself — I simply cannot help but create things. A couple of weeks ago, I introduced you to my crocheted Positivity Produce friends. Those little plushies are the direct result of putting my writing on pause for the summer.

I wasn’t sure I’d have the time to write new courses and create all the tools and eBooks that go with them in a timely way, so I set them aside, planning to focus instead on marketing Inspired Chapter, The Inspired Edit, and The Inspired Page. Did I do that brilliantly? …eh, probably not. But I did manage to create an entire army of plushies that have now taken over my kitchen!

Since today’s Edit is all about authenticity and masks, I have to admit something about myself: I am a creative to my core. I love making things that help others and bring joy. My classes create a pathway to self-love. My plushies? They just make you smile. And I love both.

I love what I’m doing. I love who I am. And I love that I’m determined to help others climb out of whatever ditch (or canyon… or chasm) they find themselves in and discover the joy of self-love. I’m embracing all of it — fully and unapologetically.

Now, on to the heart of the newsletter.
Oh — and if you know someone who’s great at marketing, send them my way, would ya?

Throughout life, many of us learn to adapt who we are depending on the situation or the people around us. We may present one version of ourselves at work, another with friends, and yet another with family. This tendency often starts early, shaped by expectations, social norms, or even a desire to avoid conflict. Over time, these “masks” can become so ingrained that we lose touch with our authentic selves.

Wearing masks can seem harmless, even protective. In certain environments, they may serve a purpose — helping us navigate challenges or meet external demands. But when masks become our default way of living, they begin to drain our energy and erode our self-identity. Constantly filtering ourselves to fit in leaves little room for genuine self-expression and can lead to feelings of disconnection, resentment, or burnout.

Authenticity begins when we start noticing where and why we wear masks. It’s about recognizing the difference between intentional adaptation (adjusting behavior in a healthy, situational way) and hiding our true selves out of fear or habit. Dropping the masks doesn’t mean abandoning all boundaries or ignoring social awareness — it means allowing your core values, personality, and truth to guide how you show up in every space.

The process of living authentically is gradual. It starts with small acts of courage — speaking honestly, showing vulnerability, and resisting the urge to play a role that isn’t yours. Each time you do, you reclaim a little more of your own energy and step more fully into the freedom of being unapologetically yourself.

This week, give yourself permission to drop the masks and embrace your truest self:

1️⃣ Where in your life do you still find yourself putting on a “mask” to meet others’ expectations?
2️⃣ How would it feel to show up in that space without editing, hiding, or toning yourself down?
3️⃣ What is one small, safe action you can take this week to let your authentic self shine?

Remember, every time you show up as the real you, you invite deeper trust, connection, and freedom into your life.

Last week, I shared about my journey from people-pleasing toward setting boundaries. This week feels like the next step—learning to drop the masks I used to wear to fit every situation.

At first, removing those masks was terrifying. I worried about whether people would like the “real” me. But something unexpected happened—each time I showed up more authentically, I found deeper connections with the people who truly mattered and felt a natural distance from those who drained my energy. It was like my authenticity became a filter, quietly shaping my circle into one that supports me.

Now, every time I notice a mask slipping back on—or discover one I didn’t realize I still had—I see it as another chance to reclaim a little more freedom. It’s still scary sometimes, but it’s worth it every single time.

I’ve been diving back into The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest, and wow—this book is a mirror I didn’t know I needed again. Wiest talks about how our biggest challenges—the “mountains” in our lives—are often built from our own patterns, fears, and limiting beliefs. And sometimes, those mountains are made up of the masks we wear and the identities we’ve created to feel safe.

Reading it alongside my own reflections on authenticity has been powerful. It’s a reminder that the obstacles between who we are now and who we want to be are often self-constructed. But here’s the good news: if we built them, we can also take them apart, one brave, authentic step at a time.

If you’re on a journey to stop hiding and start showing up as your true self, this book might just help you see your “mountains” in a whole new light.

Affiliate Link to The Mountain Is You

If you’ve been following my journey, you know I’m all about creating things that bring joy and encouragement. My crocheted Positivity Produce friends are a perfect example—they’re quirky, unique, and unapologetically themselves… kind of like embracing your own authenticity.

Each one is handmade, one-of-a-kind, and ready to remind you (or someone you love) that it’s safe to be exactly who you are. You can meet the whole crew in my Etsy shop—and maybe find the one that speaks to your heart.

Being real isn’t always easy. It means letting go of the versions of ourselves we’ve worn like armor, and daring to be seen as we truly are. But the truth is, authenticity is the bridge between where you are and where you’re meant to be. Every time you choose to show up as yourself—without the mask, without the script—you make it easier for someone else to do the same.

"Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we’ll ever do." – Brené Brown

Remember—this is your life, and you don’t have to spend it performing for anyone else’s approval. Drop the mask. Take up space. Speak your truth. The people who are meant for you will love you for exactly who you are, and the ones who aren’t? Let them drift away. You’re not here to be everything for everyone—you’re here to be you.

Never Forget...

Much Love,
Lady Misty Gebhart

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