Carl Jung emphasized the importance of knowing who you are, and of realizing an authentic self. As I think about it, realizing my identity of introspection, introversion, social cautiousness, being somewhat slow to embrace new ideas as well as people met for the first time, I think it’s fair to say I know who I am.

So, if I were to step out of character for a moment, not expecting any sort of reward for doing so, knowing my true self, not intending malevolent deception but rather exercising the freedom to disregard social norms for no other purpose than that. Should I worry that if taken to far such action might be disrespectful to those who depend on me, see me as sober and stable and grounded?

My age should permit me a certain latitude. I will continue to entertain the idea of exercising my freedom to pretend if I deem it unhurtful.