How exactly do you "be yourself"?

Question

People say it all the time- relax and just be yourself. It's so vague though! What exactly does it mean and how do you do it?

Answer 1

thats what im trying to figure out.  

Answer 2

Most people are extremely self-centered.

They worry about what others thing OF THEM.

They worry about how THEY appear.

They worry if THEY have the right friends.

They worry about what their opinions will cost THEM.

This is what people refer to when they say "Relax. Take it easy. Just be yourself".

Imagine you're have a conversation with a guy:

-He's trying to sound cool.

-He's trying to pose.

-He's trying to act tough.

-He's trying to be funny.

Not a very attractive guy huh?

Now imagine another guy sits down next to you. He doesn't flex his muscles or try for snappy comebacks. He tells you a story about his childhood growing up on a farm or in a city. He listens to your childhood stories. He asks questions. You express an opinion and he disagrees. He offers his opinion. You two converse.

This guy isn't trying to sell himself. He IS himself. He's a real person. He's not being apologetic or obtuse about it. He's just being real. No mask, no deceit, no grandstanding.

That is how you do it. Rather than worry about what the other person will think about YOU, just say whats on your mind. If you feel that burning worry start to grow when you talk to someone...practice calming yourself, and ask the person to repeat what they just said.

It's a little embarrassing, but it'll train your brain to listen rather than carry on an internal monologue of doubt.

The younger you are, the harder this is. You still don't know how you feel and what to believe in. Your opinions are still being developed and haven't solidified.

It becomes easier with age. Walking around in your own skin lets you know who you are and how you'll react to situations. So let not your heart be troubled. It becomes easier over time.  

Answer 3

it means act as your mind wants and do not worry about what they think but it is harder than it sounds because most people do different things to be accepted and they act differently.

Answer 4

don channge or lie bout wat yu do and who u r...  

Answer 5

Personally I think it's a cop out to avoid having to devote thought to requests for personal advice.  As you say, it's too vague to be of any use.  Ultimately, it requires that you achieve a full understanding of who you are and of what it means to have such an understanding, then act accordingly.

Answer 6

thats what i'd like to know.