In a world brimming with competition and noise, one of the most powerful tools for success is often overlooked—authenticity. Being true to yourself in life and business is not just a trend; it's a transformative way to connect with others, build trust, and achieve fulfillment. My journey to authenticity was born from personal challenges, and the lessons I learned shaped not just my life but also my career.
A Journey of Self-Discovery

In 2015, life threw me a curveball. Hurricane Sandy left my kids and I without a home, and I was in a difficult place emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. I needed to find my footing again, so I made a life-changing decision: I enrolled in a yoga teacher training program—not to teach but to deepen my spiritual, mental, and physical practice. Little did I know that this choice would spark a journey of authenticity and growth I never imagined.
Fast forward six months: I graduated from the program and started working part-time at a gym. One day, the owner asked if I’d completed my certification. I replied, “Yes, but I don’t want to teach.” His response? “Great. You’re teaching tomorrow at 6 a.m.”
I was terrified. For my first class, I carefully prepared—notes, playlists, and everything exactly as I had been taught. The class went smoothly, but then something happened that stuck with me. A student approached me afterward and said, “Did you get certified at XYZ Yoga Studio? You all sound the same.”
That was my wake-up call. I didn’t want to be a copy of someone else. I realized that to stand out truly, I needed to be me. I wanted to create an experience for my students that reflected my unique perspective and personality.
Finding My Authentic Voice
Personal Authenticity
Instead of mimicking the teaching style of others, I decided to create a yoga experience that reflected my personality. My classes became a space for realness, joy, and connection. I developed “When Music Speaks Dharma,” where every playlist aligned with a heartfelt dharma talk rooted in real-life stories.
I added personal touches like cold washcloths infused with essential oils and slices of cucumber for my students’ eyes during relaxation. I embraced imperfection, laughing at myself if I stumbled or forgot a pose. Most importantly, I realized that I needed to be me. This mindset shift allowed me to connect with my students on a deeper level and focus entirely on their experiences.
My classes became a celebration of life—complete with laughter, tears, dancing, and singing. The result? My classes grew from 5 to 25 students at 6 a.m., and my Sunday sessions attracted up to 75 participants. I eventually opened two yoga studios, and received awards for the best yoga studio in Monmouth and Ocean Counties multiple times. I made a lasting impact by hosting donation-based classes for charities to raise money which is an act that I hold dear to my heart.
The Power of Authenticity in Business
My story underscores a key truth: authenticity isn’t just a personal value; it’s the best way to do business. By being 100% yourself and recognizing that you need to be you, you attract the right people—whether clients, customers, or colleagues—who resonate with your unique approach. Here’s how authenticity can transform your life and career:
1. Building Trust and Loyalty
When you show up as your true self, people sense it. Authenticity fosters trust and loyalty, making others want to work with or support you.
2. Standing Out in the Crowd
In a saturated market, copying others only makes you blend in. Your unique voice, perspective, and style is what sets you apart and make you unforgettable. By embracing who you are, you allow yourself to shine.
3. Fostering Meaningful Connections
Authenticity allows you to connect with others on a deeper level. Whether in a yoga studio or a boardroom, people are drawn to genuine individuals who inspire and uplift them.
Tips for Cultivating Authenticity
How to Embrace Authenticity
Embrace Vulnerability: Share your experiences, even the difficult ones. Vulnerability helps others see the human behind the professional.
Stay True to Your Values: Align your actions with what matters most to you, whether it’s kindness, creativity, or integrity.
Be Consistent: Authenticity isn’t a one-time act; it’s a way of life. Show up consistently as yourself, no matter the circumstances.
Be Authentically You

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that life and business are better when you’re not trying to be someone else. Whether you’re a yoga instructor, an artist, or a health and wellness coach, peeling back the layers and showing the world your true self is your superpower.
Authenticity isn’t just a better look—it’s a path to fulfillment and success that resonates with others and leaves a lasting impact. You need to be you, and when you do, the world will notice.
Unfortunately, due to COVID my studio closed. I am now a multiple award-winning AI Creator and founder of Dream Canvas Creations, LLC.
disclaimer: The cover page is created from AI, the other photos are all real of author Maribeth Woodford
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