Alignment is one of those words that gets tossed around in the self-help world. But what is it, really?

The feeling of being at the right place at the right time. The feeling of having the necessary skill set to solve the puzzle presented to you. The feeling of talking to someone who gets it. The peace of mind of knowing you are making decisions that are in agreement with what your highest self believes and values.

Alignment is living in accordance with your true self, and it’s achieved when you honor your authenticity through your words and actions.

When you engage in work that fulfills you, invest in your values, move and nourish your body in ways that serve your vitality, and engage with like-minded people that inspire you, you feel aligned. You feel as though your inner self matches the self you present to others. You feel a kind of ineffable harmony.

The alternative is inner conflict–wanting what you believe you shouldn’t really want. Doing work that obliterates your creativity. Spending time with people with whom you know you don’t really vibe. Saying yes when you want to say no. Saying no when you’re too scared to say yes. When your inner self conflicts with the reality of your day-to-day life, you feel disconnection and discontentment.

Your true self knows its purpose and preferences. Only, it needs you to speak and choose on its behalf. It needs you to say yes only when it’s a full and complete yes, and no when it’s anything other than a full-on yes. It needs you to believe your real, inner weirdo is innately lovable and that she is worth your honoring. It needs you to eat well and exercise and care for your environment. It needs you to view your time as precious, your work as your calling, and your relationships as equal parts give and take. It needs you to live with integrity.

Once aligned, your life will flow freely. What you’re seeking will begin to seek you.