Hi Joanna,
Great thoughts on being true to yourself. It takes effort. You really do have to think about what you think, how you think, when you think, etc. When we manage our minds, the external becomes easier to manage. We can move towards things that open us up, as you said. 

My son opens me up and if I can put aside my worries when we are walking to the park, I can play in the leaves, point as school buses and smell the flowers. If I don't, I find myself annoyed that he's not just walking to the park. Strange isn't it? By focusing on my son, someone who opens me up to life, my worries are irrelevant. 

Thanks!