Many words are being tossed around lately—authentic, mindful, worthy—intended to elevate our consciousness and inspire us to become better people. Striving for betterment is always a good thing. However, we mustn’t confuse words with actions. Talking about being authentic or worthy doesn’t embody those traits. It’s actions that make the words a part of a person’s fiber.

Authorities like Brené Brown define authenticity as embracing who you are and abandoning the pretense of being someone you think you should be. Authenticity involves being vulnerable, compassionate, and establishing boundaries. Being true to yourself and others is commendable but comes with risks. Some of the most authentic individuals are among the most disliked. They don’t wear masks; they lay their cards on the table, making it clear where you stand with them. Yet, by being transparent, they are often despised. But then again, a truly authentic person is not dictated by the need to be liked or disliked.

Mindfulness is a buzzword that has gained considerable attention. It implies becoming aware of our thoughts and feelings while practicing self-acceptance, including meditation, which enhances sensitivity and awareness. The goal is to remain alert and focused. However, mindfulness does not address the underlying causes of attention deficits and unconscious behaviors, which should be the starting point for mindfulness. Suppose someone cannot focus or be aware of themselves or others due to factors such as a poor diet, alcohol, drugs, or mental health issues that hinder concentration and consideration. In that case, they are likely to struggle and fail. True mindfulness would mean the act of avoiding or facing behaviors that caused someone to be out of their mind in the first place.

I recently heard a woman say she wants to be in a relationship and worthy of love. However, her actions suggested otherwise. After years, she could not let go of a pseudo-relationship with someone who never expressed love for her. Even though the object of her affection was with someone else, she continued to hope for another chance to develop a relationship.

Unfortunately, these actions only affirmed that she was unworthy of love. Someone who feels worthy values their time and, above all, their heart. They protect both fiercely and recognize they are not gifts to be taken lightly. They would never offer their time or heart unless a potential partner demonstrated that they are a serious candidate for a relationship. This would involve much more than fantasies.
Words are great and, in many cases, inspirational. However, if not fully comprehended and backed up with actions, they liken to providing toothpicks instead of steel columns in a building structure. We feel hope, then crumble under the reality that words are insufficient.

Instead of using words, live the words. Success is the result of right action. Instead of talking about authenticity, mindfulness, and worthiness, be those attributes. Putting those words into action makes it impossible to deceive yourself and helps you to take ownership of your destiny. You deserve to have all three of these attributes, and the fastest way to achieve them is to stop saying what you are and demonstrate it by right actions.

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Donna Marks is an educator, licensed psychotherapist, and addictions counselor in Palm Beach, Florida. She has worked with over 6,000 clients. Donna’s struggle with addiction brought her to a worldwide search for healing. She became licensed as a Mental Health Counselor in 1987. In 1989, she earned a Doctorate Degree in Adult Education, then became Certified in Addictions, Gestalt Therapy, Psychoanalysis, Hypnosis, and Sex Therapy. Donna developed an award-winning addiction training program at Palm Beach Community College. She co-owns an outpatient treatment program and serves as a consultant to treatment centers. For 36 years, she has taught A Course in Miracles.

Donna is the author of three books: the multi-award-winning title Exit the Maze: One Addiction, One Cause, One Cureand Learn, Grow, Forgive: A Path to Spiritual Success, The Healing Moment: Seven Paths to Turn Messes into Miracles of Love, and her latest fiction, Fortis & Sapiente – A Tale of Two Lovers Who Successfully Navigate the Murky Waters of Love. Donna is a public speaker and has shared her methods with millions of listeners on podcasts and radio shows.

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