Here’s hoping your Fourth of July holiday was an exciting experience shared with family and friends. I know mine was.

Independence Day in this country is a holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.  It’s the day that the original 13 American colonies considered themselves free of the British Empire, having drawn a line in the sand as a new nation.

I’m a big fan of the concept of Independence Day. It’s an opportunity for each of us to commit to carving out our own unique path in life and embrace our individuality, genuineness and authenticity.

Consider for just a moment:

• Are we too caught up on seeking the approval of others to be our real selves?
• Do we fear that if we show our true essence that perhaps others may not like us?
• Are we so busy building empires that we don’t take the time to build our own self-esteem?
• Are we so focused on having the next best thing that we don’t consider being our next best self?
• Do we want bigger and better stuff instead of a bigger and better heart?

I offer these questions for your consideration because as the United States of America continues to celebrate its sovereignty and long-held desire to stand on its own — free from the rule of another — maybe each of us as individuals should consider following suit.

There is great liberty in authenticity. It takes a good dose of courage, but I believe suiting up and showing up fearless allows us the most important freedom of all — to be who we are.

In the aftermath of this most recent holiday weekend — somewhere between the barbeques and the fireworks — I hope you took time to consider the option of drawing your own line in the sand.

And simply be “yourself.”

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About The Author: Annie M. Fonte is the founder and CEO of Meet Me At The Barn — a self-mastery and personal development program designed to help people of purpose achieve their highest level of living. With an MBA from Harvard University, Annie has founded numerous successful ventures in health care, sports medicine, continuing education and hard goods. At Meet Me At The Barn, Annie and her team produce live and online courses that guide clients toward living an authentic life and that help people discover and pursue their true self and passions.