Living Truthfully in a Performative World (With Infographic)

Living truthfully becomes easier with concrete practices. Here are ten strategies you can implement immediately.

1. Practice daily self-reflection.
Set aside 10 minutes each day to check in with yourself. Ask: What am I feeling? What do I need? What am I avoiding?

2. Listen without planning your response.
When someone shares something important, resist the urge to formulate your reply. Focus entirely on understanding their perspective first.

3. Use "I" statements in difficult conversations.
Instead of "You always..." try "I feel..." or "I need..." This centres the conversation in your experience rather than assigning blame.

4. Set boundaries around what you share.
Being truthful doesn't mean saying yes to everything. It's okay to say no, ask for space, or decline to answer personal questions.

5. Apologise when your honesty causes unintended harm.
If your truth-telling hurts someone, take responsibility and acknowledge the impact. Make amends where possible.

6. Apply the three-question test.
Before sharing something difficult, ask: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind? You need at least two out of three.

7. Take a moment to calm yourself before responding when emotions are high. When you're angry, hurt, or defensive, pause to reflect. Let the intensity settle before speaking your truth.

8. Own your mistakes without justification.
When you're wrong, admit it clearly and completely. Resist the urge to explain, defend, or minimise your error.

9. Create space for "I don't know."
Admitting uncertainty can be profoundly honest. You don't have to have answers to everything to live authentically.

10. Choose vulnerability over performance.
Share your real struggles and joys, not the curated versions designed to impress others. Authenticity serves connection, not image management.

Download this quick checklist infographic :)