Being Your Authentic Self

When I was a teenager, I often wondered who I really was. I knew what my parents expected me to be (or not to be), yet I didn't have a good sense of who I was back then. I knew I wanted to be a teacher when I was in 3rd grade, I loved the natural innocence of children, I loved to be helpful to those older than me and I loved watching lifetime TV and reading books of inspirational stories about humanity. But because I was conflicted between what I loved and what was expected of me, I took a path that perhaps was not the best fit for me. However, now looking back into my 20's, I carved out a pretty darn good path for myself regardless. What I learned throughout all these years is that you have to be true to who you are. There is definitely a 'core' you or an 'authentic' you that needs to shine through in all you do and more importantly, in the decisions you make in life.

What has been your experience leading up to your life now? Have you discovered your authentic self and how did you come to that discovery?