Why Does Authenticity Matter?
“Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It's about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen.” - Brene Brown
It's taken me years of work to be able to show up as my authentic self. As I share in my authenticity and belonging workshops, we measure authenticity in moments. For many of us, especially in workplaces where our identities are not in the majority, it starts with short conversations, personal displays, sharing our stories, and seeing our values reflected in the work we do. It also requires a workplace that is welcoming of that, and leaders who actively promote authenticity in how they interact with their teams. But the payoff? It's extraordinary. It's a deep breath of fresh air when we know that the space where we spend much of our adult lives - our workplaces - value who we are and what we bring.
What does it mean to be authentic at work? Why does authenticity matter?
Being our authentic self at work means being true to ourself, our values, and being genuine in your interactions with others. It also looks like honest about our biases, communicating openly, staying true to our personal and professional goals, and not putting up a facade or pretending to be someone we're not. By showing up authentically we can build trust, foster positive relationships, and deepen inclusion and belonging in our workplace. How do we show up as out authentic self?
Advice for Letting Your Authentic Self Shine
Get to know yourself. Take some time to figure out who you are, what your values and beliefs are, and what you stand for. Reflect on what is important to you, what motivates you, and what your goals are.
Honesty is a key component of authenticity. Be honest with yourself and others about your thoughts and feelings. Don't be afraid to speak up when something doesn't feel right. This doesn't mean oversharing or being unprofessional, but rather being real and genuine in your conversations.
Build relationships and seek out community at work. This could be a group of coworkers who share your interests or a formal employee resource group. Nurturing relationships helps us to have a sense of belonging at work and allows for deeper authenticity.
Authenticity is not a one-time event. Keep in mind that being authentic is a continuous process. Be patient with yourself and with others, and keep striving to be the most true and authentic version of yourself.
Do the work
This week, I commit to being open and honest, understanding my uniqueness, staying true to my values, and avoiding comparing myself negatively to others. I commit to living authentically.
Spread the word
If you want to keep going
The Balancing Act: How to Find Authenticity,
Belonging, and Success at Work
Join me in my latest program, designed to support your team members in navigating the modern workplace's complexities, embracing their true authentic selves, and fostering a culture that promotes inclusion for us all. Through storytelling, interactive discussions, case studies, and real-life examples, attendees will learn why authenticity and belonging matter, how to recognize their unique strengths and values, how to choose when and where to share their authentic selves, and tactics to employ starting today to thrive at work. The goal? For each participant to leave with practical tools and insights that can be applied immediately to show up authentically and build a workplace centered on belonging and success.
