Finding Authenticity in Sharing Pronouns.

Lately, I’ve been noticing how this practice of showing up with intention—whether through texts or conversations—has been influencing other areas of my life, especially in my yoga classes. One thing that stands out is how I’ve been sharing my pronouns. At first, it felt a little performative, like I was checking a box, but recently, it’s become more genuine and human. This shift clicked for me after I attended a workshop with Global Narrative Hive. It was there that I realized my sharing wasn’t just about me—it was about connecting to a larger story that includes immigration, gender justice, and solidarity.

The "Why" Behind Sharing

This got me thinking about why we share our pronouns in the first place. Is it simply because we’ve seen others do it? Is it to fit in or avoid standing out? Or are we doing it as an intentional act of solidarity, a way of recognizing and respecting someone else’s lived experience?

Understanding our reasons can make all the difference between something that feels performative and something that feels meaningful. It’s a shift from “I’m doing this because I should” to “I’m doing this because I care.”

And yet, for some people, sharing pronouns still feels uncomfortable or forced. Maybe it’s because they haven’t had the chance to reflect on the deeper reason behind it. If that sounds like you, know that it’s okay to pause and take the time to figure out what feels right.

Prompts for Reflection

Here are a few reflection prompts to help if you’re struggling to feel authentic when sharing your pronouns:

1. What does sharing my pronouns mean to me?
   Take a moment to consider what it represents for you personally. Is it a part of your identity? A way to build understanding? Or a symbol of your values?

2. When I share my pronouns, how does it make me feel?
   Reflect on the feelings that arise. Do you feel empowered, uncertain, connected, or hesitant? Exploring these emotions might reveal insights into why it feels natural or why it might feel off.

3. Am I sharing my pronouns for myself, for others, or both?
   It’s important to understand whether this act is primarily for self-expression or to create space for others. Finding a balance between the two might help make the practice feel more aligned with who you are.

4. How do I want others to feel when they hear or see my pronouns?
   Think about how your sharing impacts others. Does it invite connection? Does it create a sense of safety or respect? Considering the effect on your community can help ground the reason behind the act.

5. Does this feel like an act of solidarity or self-expression?
   Sometimes, sharing our pronouns can be a way of standing in solidarity with marginalized groups. Other times, it’s a form of personal expression. Identifying which resonates more for you can bring clarity.

Moving from Performative to Authentic

There’s no one right way to share your pronouns, just like there’s no perfect way to express gratitude. Both are small, everyday actions that can carry a lot of weight when done with intention. If you’ve been struggling with feeling like your sharing is performative, I encourage you to pause and reflect. Your experience matters, and finding your “why” can shift your perspective from doing what’s expected to doing what’s true for you.

In the end, sharing pronouns is more than just words—it’s an opportunity to connect with others, to recognize their humanity, and to show up as our authentic selves.