Yes, it is crucial to be authentic, it is vital in this lifetime to be YOU and figure out what you want out of life, but without a moral compass, without internal standards of goodness toward all of humanity, one's authenticity is shallow and worthless.
When you contemplate what you want in life, consider your impact on the whole of society—enough of being selfish and self-centered. Stand in your power but ensure that your stand is on solid ground. One of character and integrity because these two personal elements are the foundation of superior authenticity. They are also the two traits that will make your life joyous or without them hell on earth.
Moral Decay is all around us. To be a leader in today's world, begin with your own morality and bring hope to the world around you.