Have you ever thought there was a more authentic version of yourself? One that is just under the surface, but is held back by the things that have happened to you? Maybe you’ve glimpsed this version of yourself in the eyes of someone who truly loves you, who really “gets” you, like a grandparent, a teacher, or a friend. They see only the best in you, and bring out the best in you, too. Around them, perhaps you feel strong, confident, content. Spoiler alert: this can be you all the time! The way we think about ourselves is influenced by many things, and these thoughts can become ingrained, and are often automatically negative.