Embracing Your Own Voice – Living Authentically in a Noisy World
Welcome Back, Friends!
From the moment we’re born, we’re surrounded by messages—what to believe, how to act, who to be. Many of these messages come from people who care about us, but even well-meaning advice often reflects someone else’s experiences, fears, or hopes. Over time, it’s easy to lose touch with our own voice and start living according to what others think we should do.
But here’s the truth: none of us are here to live someone else’s version of life. The very fact that you’re here is extraordinary! When you think about the odds of your parents meeting, the generations that came before, and even the existence of life itself, the chances of your existence are about 102685000 (or 10 followed by 2, 684, 999 zeros). That’s almost zero! And for reference sake, the universe only has 1080 atoms. And yet—here you are.
That’s not meant to add pressure. It’s not about living what our culture might call a “big, important life.” It’s about living your life—the one that feels true to you. Some of us are here to make an impact on a global scale, while others are here to create deep, meaningful connections closer to home. What matters is that it feels authentic.
I’ve learned so much from others, and I value the wisdom I’ve gathered along the way. But I also know how easy it can be to lose yourself in other people’s lessons. Even as a personal growth coach, not everything I share will resonate with everyone—and it shouldn’t. Growth isn’t about recreating someone else’s path. It’s about finding what aligns with you, exploring it with curiosity, and making it your own. Whether that’s in the art you create, how you navigate challenges, or how you relate to others, make it your own. Nobody has your voice; nobody has your light.
When someone shares advice or a list of tips, it’s not about following their instructions to the letter. It’s about taking what feels right and using it in a way that makes sense for you. That doesn’t mean avoiding discomfort or new perspectives. Growth often requires us to stretch in ways that feel unfamiliar. But it also means remembering that part of what makes someone else’s journey special is them being true to themselves—and the same is true for you. Your unique light shines brightest when you honour what feels aligned for you.
I learned this firsthand when I was starting out as a cake designer. Someone well-known in the industry told me I needed to choose between cakes and dessert tables because, at the time, not many people were doing both. While I appreciated their perspective, giving up one didn’t feel right for me. So, I chose to continue with both—and that decision became a cornerstone of my business. Sometimes, the best path is the one only you can see, and that’s where your magic lies.
Let’s be honest, though—living this way isn’t always easy. People who care about us often tell us what they would do or what’s worked for them. And then there’s a culture that thrives on keeping us detached, uncertain, and confused, looking outside of ourselves for answers. Let’s focus on strengthening our inner voice, so we can look inwards for guidance – because the answers we’re looking for truly lie within. Let’s learn to trust ourselves, to choose from a place of love and alignment rather than fear or avoidance.
In relationships, careers, or any part of life, the goal isn’t to avoid mistakes—it’s to live authentically, trusting that even missteps can guide us forward.
Instead of tips, here are some prompts I’ve found helpful for tuning into my own voice so I can walk my own, aligned path:
What would I choose if I had an unshakeable trust in my ability to figure things out?
What do I fear this decision says about me (and what about the other options)?
If I choose ___, what do I want to carry with me as I move forward? (same for the other options)?
How does my body feel when I imagine choosing this path?
What do I know to be true about myself, no matter what others think or say?
And for the days when you need a little extra inspiration, let these words from Muhammad Ali guide you:
"Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing."
Your voice and your light are gifts unlike anyone else’s. Living authentically is the greatest way to honour them. Whether your impact feels small or life-changing, it matters. You matter. The world is brighter because of your unique light.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Christina
