# PRETENDING
## Part I: The Act of Pretending
- Writing as Self-Therapy
- Using writing to define feelings and thoughts
- Realizing contradictions between inner self and actions
- Acknowledging the gap between inner soul and outer behavior
- The Contradiction Within
- Inner self vs. Outer self
- Struggling with authenticity
- Feeling disconnected from true identity
- The Cycle of Pretense
- Knowing what is "right" but still pretending
- Recognizing the disconnect from inner self
- Questioning why the pretense continues
## Part II: The Why Behind Pretending
- The Root Cause of Disconnection
- Awareness of inner self but inability to connect
- Feeling like a "lie" despite outward correctness
- Deep dissatisfaction with the act of pretending
- Emotional Turmoil
- Repeated questioning: "Why?!"
- Frustration with wasted life energy on pretense
- Desire for change but feeling trapped in the cycle
## Part III: Breaking Free from Pretense
- Decision to Stop Pretending
- Choosing honesty over pretense
- Committing to self-therapy and self-reflection
- Embracing vulnerability in front of oneself
- Redefining the Self
- Moving from disconnection to reconnection
- Practicing authenticity in daily life
- Letting go of societal expectations and pressures
- The Path Forward
- Honesty as a tool for transformation
- Rediscovering and embracing the true self
- Ending the cycle of pretending and starting anew