Over the years I have learnt this is the one trait I desire in all people I meet and connect with, most importantly in the leaders I am working for or with.
What is authenticity? You will hear words like trustworthy, honest, real and genuine. Or to be clear ‘not fake’. In the workplace we say ‘bring your best self to work’. I am unsure what other self we are bringing. We should turn up being us as it is exhausting to be someone else.
Connecting to our strengths is an easy way to adopt and share your authenticity.
Being clear on your values, what drives you and then living those every day.
Having the ability to lead with emotional intelligence and understand your feelings and emotions and how they can impact your reactions and decisions.
Having the courage to challenge yourself when you may not be authentic or trying to be something else for someone else. Be able to question yourself and take on those learnings.
Ralph Waldo Emerson said “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” To be able to live authentically means you must take time to stop and reflect on the now and set your agenda on the future you.
Self awareness is an important skill to tap into. Be you in all interactions in relationships, work and in life. This can be done when you live by your values and feel fulfilled by who you are being.
It might be time to ask - ‘Are you being who you want to be?’
