Why I Choose Authenticity and Refuse to Dim My Light

by Jeanette R. Harrison, MPH

When we set out to accomplish something meaningful, whether it's growing a business, sharing personal stories, or reaching out to a community, we often encounter what we call "haters" —sometimes even from those closest to us. I recently experienced this when a family member told me to stop making videos, calling out my "fat rolls" and "ugly face." They told me that "no one wants to see that." Their words stung, as they were intended to, but here’s what happened next: I kept making the videos. I kept showing up on social media, sharing my voice, and pushing forward with my goals and my message. And now, I reach over a million viewers each year. This wasn’t easy, but it has been one of the most empowering parts of my journey. Here’s why.

1. Authenticity Is a Magnet for True Connections

One thing I’ve learned through my videos and online presence is that authenticity resonates. People aren’t looking for perfection—they’re looking for connection, realness, and a sense of belonging. By showing up exactly as I am, I'm allowing others to do the same. That’s where true community is built. When we put ourselves out there, imperfections and all, we give others permission to show up authentically too. And while some people may never appreciate that, the people who matter will.

People know I'm a writer 

2. Confidence Can Be Threatening to Some—But That’s Not Your Problem

Looking back, I realized that when my sister told me I was "acting like I did with my college boyfriend," she was trying to make a dig. I didn't see it that way. Because at that time of my life, I was super confident. In fact, I used to say how much I loved myself when I was that age. Maybe my confidence makes her uncomfortable, or maybe she just doesn’t understand my journey. Either way, the important takeaway here is this: other people’s insecurities should never dictate how you show up in the world. If your confidence makes someone uncomfortable, that’s a reflection of their limitations, not yours.

I love that I get told I'm authentic

3. Growth Can Be Misunderstood as “Playing” or “Showing Off”

Building an online presence has been essential for my business. It’s not just "playing on social media"—it's marketing, connecting, and creating value. Sometimes, people misunderstand our efforts or dismiss them because they don’t understand the purpose or because our goals look different from theirs. But just because others can’t see our vision doesn’t mean it isn’t valid. Social media is a powerful tool, and I’m proud to use it to share my message and grow my business. The number of people who engage, learn, and feel inspired by my posts tells me I’m doing exactly what I need to be doing.

Market growth shows I know my stuff

4. Real Empowerment Means Refusing to Dim Your Light

Perhaps the hardest but most empowering lesson has been learning to keep showing up, even when it’s uncomfortable, even when others try to undermine me. If I had listened to my sister’s hurtful words, I would have silenced my own voice. I would have missed the chance to connect with the thousands of people who tune in each month to hear what I have to say. Showing up as my authentic self—and loving myself in the process—has been a powerful act of self-respect. I am choosing to be visible, to show my "fat rolls," my "ugly face," and every part of myself that others might judge because I know that these things do not define my worth. What defines me is my resilience, my dedication, and my commitment to my goals and dreams.

My online presence has taught me self-love

A Final Word to Anyone Who's Been Told to "Hide Away"

To anyone who has been told they aren’t good enough, that "no one cares", or that they should "stay home," remember that only YOU get to decide how you show up in the world. When you embrace your own power, you inspire others to do the same. If my story resonates with you, know that you’re not alone, and that your journey, just as it is, is worth sharing. 

We all deserve to be seen. And sometimes, the greatest act of courage is simply refusing to hide.