The Rise of Authenticity:

There is a massive shift happening right now, it was quiet at first, but now impossible becoming to ignore. Across social media platforms, from TikTok, Instagram Reels, the hard hitting, big dog, YouTube. Even in traditional blogs, a wave of authenticity is crashing through the noise. Gone are the days when polished perfection influencer façades ruled the internet. Today, realness is king. I, for one, am here for it.

For years, it seemed like social media was built for a certain kind of person. We all know the type: perfectly curated feeds, flawless aesthetics, and what often felt like a performance instead of a genuine life. It was disheartening for those of us who didn’t fit that mold, especially as the gap widened between reality and the content we consumed. But the tides are now turning, and fast. I plan on catching this wave.

The End of the Fake Era

We’re watching it unfold in real time. Influencers who built empires on illusion are losing their footing. Meanwhile, smaller creators, people just like you and me, are finding their voices, and with them, their audiences. It’s happening on YouTube, where humble creators are seeing explosive growth. It’s visible on TikTok, where someone filming from their kitchen table can go viral overnight. Authenticity resonates in a way that filters and fakery never truly could.

It’s not about being perfect anymore. It’s about being real and showing up. People are craving stories, experiences, and emotions they can relate to. They want to see the mess, the struggle, the joy, and the quiet victories. They want connection. In an age where the world often feels fragmented and overwhelming, I personally feel this shift is a collective breath of fresh air.

Tech, Growth, and the Challenge of Keeping Up

I’m 35 years old. I didn't grow up with smartphones or social media influencers. My relationship with technology has been a slow build, equal parts fascination and intimidation. Let’s be honest: as tech continues to evolve at a lightning-fast pace, it can often feel impossible to keep up. Algorithms change, platforms rise and fall, and it feels like there's always some new trend you’re supposed to know about.

Here's the thing y'all: I don’t want to fall behind. I don't want to get lost in the shuffle of digital evolution. More importantly, I really don’t have to. You don’t have to be an expert in video editing or own a high-end camera to share your story. You just need to show up, now more than ever, people value honesty over polish. What excites me the most about this trend toward authenticity is that it opens the door for people of all ages and backgrounds to be seen and heard. It’s not just the 20-somethings anymore. Older generations are stepping into the spotlight, sharing their perspectives, and thriving online too. They are showing up for their piece of the cake too, and I LOVE that, there is room for everyone to succeed.

The Wisdom of Age and the Beauty of Real Stories

All my life, I’ve been drawn to older people as is. I’ve always had friends decades older than me. Their stories, their wisdom, their lived experiences have always held a special place in my heart. I remember listening to my grandparents talk about the “good old days,” the twinkle in their eyes as memories played like movies behind them. Back then, I didn’t fully understand. But now? I feel it in my soul.

Perhaps that’s what makes this cultural moment so beautiful. We are finally starting to see each other, not just as content creators or viewers, but as people. Human beings with emotions, dreams, scars, and memories. That’s what authenticity offers: a chance to connect through truth.

I genuinely believe that this is why older creators are starting to thrive online. They carry stories that resonate deeply. They speak with a kind of grounded clarity that only comes from experience. Those of us who grew up listening to the tales of yesteryear, seeing that kind of presence online is both comforting and inspiring.

Gen Alpha, Gen Z, and What Comes Next

We’re on the cusp of another generational shift. Gen Alpha is stepping into the digital scene, growing up in a world where authenticity is the new currency. While it’s easy to worry about how fast things are changing, I choose to feel hopeful. Especially if this trend continues.

Because if we can keep this momentum, this hunger for what’s real, we have a chance to raise an entire generation on connection instead of comparison. A generation that values honesty, mental health, self-expression, and empathy over viral trends and aesthetic perfection. This isn’t just a trend. It’s a movement, it’s one that can reshape the way we think about online spaces for years to come.

Starting My Own Journey, maybe you should too.

I’ve decided to jump in. I’m starting my own YouTube channel, and I’m diving into platforms like Vocal to share my thoughts, my story, my life. I don’t have all the tech knowledge, and I might stumble along the way, but I’m more excited than ever to begin. For once, the pressure to “get it right” is overshadowed by the joy of simply showing up.

I want to talk about the things that matter to me. I want to connect with others, hear their stories, be an active part of a space that feels welcoming and real. Whether it’s through video, writing, or just a casual post, I’m committed to showing up as myself, for myself... flaws and all.

We spend so much time trying to be what we think people want us to be. But the truth is, people want you. Your voice. Your experiences. Your weird little quirks and your moments of growth. And, if they don't, those were not your people anyway. Thats too true.

What a Time to Be Alive

Sometimes I think about how strange and wonderful it is to be alive right now. To have access to these platforms where we can speak, connect, and express ourselves freely. I think about how lonely the world can feel, and how this shift toward authenticity might just be the antidote we’ve been needing.

So, if you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to start something, whether it’s a YouTube channel, a podcast, a blog, a live stream, or just speaking your truth on social media, THIS is your sign. The world is listening, more importantly, it’s ready to hear the real you.