Welcoming everyone’s authentic self
Who is my authentic self? Is there one “true” me?
The truth is, my authentic self changes from day to day and from situation to situation. However, there are times when I may not feel comfortable being my authentic self, and feel like I have to hide my true self, or like I can not share my real opinions. One of the reasons I began Axiom of Purpose was because I wanted to create an environment where everyone could be their authentic selves all the time. I believe whole-heartedly that we create the best creative campaigns this way.
When I share with people that I am on a mission to make sure everyone feels comfortable being their authentic selves, people often ask what that means. We usually get into conversations about code-switching and valuing differences. I’ve been code-switching successfully for so long, that I got to a place where I didn’t even realize I was doing it - until I had an epiphany that the code-switched Revekka had taken over completely!
I hear this same realization from friends and colleagues all the time. “I didn’t realize how much I was doing it until you said it.” So I thought I would provide a quick authentic self checklist to help us all get back to being ourselves!
When you are not comfortable being your authentic self:
When you are living as your authentic self:
Your shadow self takes over.
It may feel like you are watching yourself from afar, or you are arguing with yourself in your head. And afterward, you don’t feel like the right side won.
It feels right.
There is a natural inner confidence that shines when your words and your actions match the thoughts in your head. When we don’t censor ourselves, it feels like we have been unbound.
You feel strange.
It may not necessarily feel like disappointment, or regret. But it also doesn’t feel right. It leaves you with a peculiar and distant feeling about your own words or actions.
You feel pride.
It takes courage to be our authentic selves in all situations. By dropping our carefully crafted “professional” façades, we are being vulnerable. And when we can do this with confidence, we are rewarded with a terrific feeling of inner triumph.
Friends and family show concern.
The people who know you best start to express out loud what you feel inside. They ask questions like, “Are you okay?” or “Is this worth it?” They tell you they are worried about you.
Friends and family notice!
You get compliments like, “you are glowing!” or “you look terrific.” and “I can see such a difference in you!” You will notice people want to spend time with you because they have always loved the real, authentic you!
When you are not valuing people for their authentic selves:
When you are valuing people for their authentic selves:
You are discouraging dissent.
Think about how safe it is to disagree with you. Do you welcome different opinions with encouragement? Or do you offer counterpoints that position your own opinion as the best option? Do you listen with an open mind?
You are checking your implicit bias.
This could probably be a whole other blog, but it is important to recognize we all have bias. Actively checking yourself for why something might rub you the wrong way, and letting go of that, can help you appreciate authenticity.
You are molding people into you.
You think of your employees as proteges with a secret desire to sculpt them into a version of you rather than helping them bloom into their own best versions of themselves.
You are encouraging everyone to be themselves.
Rather than focusing on what you think people need to change or how they can improve, you are focusing on how their unique experiences and perspectives add to yours, recognizing both are valuable.
You are focused on how well people “fit in.”
You look at their differences as evidence that they are not “right” for the team, rather than focusing on what they add, that the team might be missing.
You are appreciating differences.
You recognize that your way is not the best way, but simply a different way. You think of every alternative option that someone offers as a valuable new perspective.
So why is this important in marketing and communications?
The most interesting innovations, the most astounding creativity and the most novel ideas come when collaborators are unrestricted. Implement Bright cloud brainstorming for ideas on how to build a culture of innovation. When everyone feels free to contribute their zany ideas, when everyone’s authentic self shines - magic happens.
