Drop the Props: A Pursuit of Authenticity

In a world increasingly dominated by social media and curated images, the pressure to define ourselves through external symbols—our "props"—has never been greater. These props, whether they are physical items in our surroundings or the personas we craft online, create avatars of ourselves that can feel both liberating and confining. The journey of shedding these props to embrace a more authentic self is not merely a personal endeavor; it is a cultural imperative that calls for introspection and honesty.  A simplification of self.

The concept of props extends beyond mere physical objects. It encompasses the roles we play and the identities we project to others. For instance, consider Gibson electric guitar and a vintage turntable I kept in my office.  These items, while aesthetically pleasing, do not represent a genuine passion for music. Instead, they symbolize an image—a somewhat unconsciously curated façade designed to impress others or fulfill societal expectations. The guitar serves as a prop in a narrative that does not belong to the individual; it becomes an accessory in the performance of identity rather than an expression of true self.  In truth, I don’t play guitar.  My son left it when he moved.  The turntable and 60’s and 70’s albums displayed with it?  I’ve used it twice and honestly listen to very little of that music anymore.  The props served as conversation pieces, but mostly to paint a picture or maybe even a fairly fictitious history.

This phenomenon is not limited to personal spaces but extends to the professional realm as well. In the age of digital marketing and social media, businesses often find themselves constructing elaborate avatars to attract customers. The sleek advertisements and polished posts can sometimes overshadow the underlying values and authenticity of a brand. Just as individuals curate their identities, companies engage in a similar dance of avatar building, often prioritizing image over substance. The result is a marketplace filled with noise and confusion, where genuine connection becomes a rare commodity.

The decision to "drop the props" is a radical one, requiring courage and vulnerability. It demands an honest assessment of what truly reflects our values and beliefs. As I dismantled my office, stripping away the carefully chosen decorations and symbols, I was confronted with the realization that my environment was a projection of an identity I no longer wished to uphold. The clutter of props was a barrier to authenticity, obscuring my true self behind layers of expectation and performance.

In creating a space that reflects who I am today, I found the importance of simplicity. A minimalist approach not only reduces distractions but also invites clarity. The absence of props allows for a more genuine expression of self, devoid of the need for validation from others. Yet, this does not imply a rejection of storytelling; rather, it calls for a different kind of narrative—one rooted in honesty and vulnerability. 

How can we tell our stories without the embellishments of props? I think the answer lies in embracing our experiences and imperfections. Authenticity does not require a polished façade; it thrives in the raw and unfiltered moments of life. Sharing personal stories about failures, challenges, and triumphs creates a connection that resonates on a deeper level. These narratives, stripped of pretense, become powerful tools for engagement and understanding.

In professional settings, the challenge remains to blend authenticity with the necessity of branding. Businesses can adopt a transparent approach that values honesty over self-promotion. Instead of focusing solely on the image they project, companies can share their journeys, including the struggles and lessons learned along the way. This fosters a sense of community and shared experience, inviting customers to engage with the brand on a personal level. 

Furthermore, the act of dropping props encourages a deeper exploration of self. It invites individuals to reflect on their values, desires, and aspirations, unearthing a more profound understanding of who they are. This introspective journey can be liberating, as it allows for the shedding of societal expectations and the embrace of personal truth. The process can be uncomfortable, but it is ultimately rewarding, leading to a more fulfilling existence.

The essence of dropping the props lies in the realization that our identities are not defined by external symbols but by our actions, beliefs, and values. The things we surround ourselves with should serve as a reflection of our true selves, rather than a mask we wear to fit into societal molds. By stripping away the unnecessary layers, we can cultivate an environment that nurtures authenticity, allowing us to engage with ourselves and others genuinely.

Moreover, this exploration of authenticity extends beyond the individual. It has the potential to foster a cultural shift towards valuing substance over style. As more people embrace their true selves, we may witness a collective movement towards genuine connections, both personally and professionally. The emphasis on authenticity can break down barriers and foster empathy, creating a society where individuals feel empowered to share their stories without the constraints of props.

Dropping the props is a powerful act of self-discovery and authenticity. By dismantling the façades we create, we open ourselves up to a world of genuine connection and understanding. The challenge lies in navigating the complexities of identity in a society that often prioritizes image over substance. Yet, as we strive to tell our stories without the embellishments of props, we can cultivate a life that is not only true to ourselves but also resonates with others on a profound level.

I find I enjoy simplicity and seek to tell stories that aren’t protecting my failures or shortcomings-comings.  It’s liberating.  It’s takes much less effort.  We can create a narrative that is uniquely ours—one that invites others to join us on the journey of self-discovery, connection, and shared humanity. After all, in a world increasingly filled with avatars and props, the most powerful story we can tell is the one that reveals the truth of who we are.