Yes I do try to live a life which is authentic to me. I spent years basically just servicing my narc ExH and young children. Worked myself into the ground doing stupid hours in a supposedly high status job which I hated but which had good pay then came home and did all the childcare and housework. Looking back I have no idea how I functioned on so little sleep for so many years.
A few years ago my life fell apart when I found out exH had cheated throughout our marriage and I couldn't bear to carry on with the job any more and was effectively pushed out. I had what I now think was probably some sort of breakdown although it was very low key and consisted of me sleeping all the time when I wasn't actively doing something, though I still met all my commitments like school runs etc.
When I emerged from that I was determined that the new life I built would be right for me. It is important to me to benefit others and to leave my old life behind so I work for a charity in an entirely new field. I get stressed very easily now so I try hard to look after myself and I just walk away from any stressful situations now because I have learnt that there is absolutely nothing in life you cannot leave.
I decided I never want another partner and I try to give myself enough nurturing time doing things which build me up. Years of being told how inadequate I was have left me with an eating disorder which I have not yet cracked, but that is next on my list of things to tackle.
I only go to social things which appeal to me (I hate parties) and because, ironically given my marriage, integrity and honesty are very important to me, I go out of my way to deal with others in the way I would like to be dealt with.
None of that sounds very exciting, but I do have a feeling of inner calm and peace now which I never had in my past life.