We all think we’re being real—whether in public or in private—but the deeper challenge is questioning whether we truly know our real selves at all. In any case, even when we know ourselves we might face various pressures that push us to fit in or not cause trouble – so even the most well-intentioned person might struggle to always be 100% real in public. Sometimes the simplest questions are actually the most complex. Thankfully, we have some wonderful members of the community who offered to share their thoughts on this challenging question.
Yuly Rodriguez
In many ways, Yes. it’s just one layer. Everyone who truly knows me will tell you that I’m incredibly random, spontaneous even, but also laser focused when it comes to my vision for Business and Style. I am very the creativity & my drive in my inner lion persona , the aesthetics I stand for. To be strong with my beauty Read more>>
OHGEE
Absolutely. Read more>>
Cheri Hewan
There’s only one version of me — what you see is exactly what you get. I’ve always admired people who can put on a façade, but that’s just not me. My greatest strength is my authenticity. I show up as myself in every situation, and I believe that’s my superpower — because there’s truly no one else who can be me. Read more>>
Zoe Cassell
Yes the public version of me is 100% me. What you see is what you get. I’m sarcastic, like dry humor and speak on whatever comes across my mind. Read more>>
Nandie Wilmot
The public version of me is real but it’s the polished version. It’s the woman who shows up strong, composed, and confident, even when life feels chaotic behind the scenes. I don’t fake who I am, but I do protect certain parts of myself. Read more>>
Adriano Dolce
“The public version of me is real — it’s just amplified. What people see is the energy, the confidence, the visual language I’ve built to express what’s inside. But behind it, I’m quiet, observant, and always creating. I don’t fake who I am; I just turn the volume up when the lights hit. Read more>>
Jayne Jones
“Yes — because the No Sugar Baker isn’t a character I play; it’s who I became after nearly losing everything. My faith, humor, and no-nonsense attitude are all part of the real me. I wholeheartedly believe in being authentic — what you see is what you get. Read more>>
Mirra Eden
I’m not even sure if there is a version of myself that is the “real me”. I used to make this joke about my name; that it sounded like “mirror” for a reason. I felt that I was a reflection of everyone I’ve ever met. Read more>>
MC Ragoonan
I’ve thought about this question a lot, especially when it comes to the difference—or maybe the lack of difference—between Shane Ragoonan and MC Ragoonan. Some people think they’re two separate identities, like one is a costume I put on and the other is who I really am underneath. But the truth is, they’re not different people. They’re the same person—just operating at different volumes. Read more>>
Alexandria Friedlander
I’ve come to understand that the public version of myself, the version people see, is the real me. That version is authentic, imperfect, and ever-evolving. I don’t pretend to have it all figured out, and I’ve learned to embrace my flaws as part of my journey. I fall short sometimes. I make mistakes. I have moments of doubt, impatience, and ego-driven impulses. Read more>>
Brittney Jenkins
Yes, 1000% Me! Authentic! Now I don’t show my personal life , good or bad it’s nobody business. But what I do show is my creativity. Read more>>
Erica Dunhill
Ha ha ha, yes. Very much so. I believe in authenticity and have Made a point to grow as an individual while still being true to myself and what makes me Me. Surely this is reflected in my work. Read more>>
