I recently had a conversation with someone who was struggling emotionally to achieve the outcomes they desired. This individual felt like they needed to engage in a particular style of behavior that was, in many respects contrary to their natural personality. Yet, no matter how much they maintained a focused effort in this behavioral role, they still struggled to achieve the outcomes they desired.
The more we talked the more apparent it became that they were denying the most enjoyable and influential personality trait to play this role. As they engaged in this behavior, they became consistently frustrated and unhappy about the role they had to play.
Embracing any behavioral role at the expense of personal authenticity means not being true oneself. In being untrue to oneself means we are not being completely honest with those around us either. Leadership, inspiration, and happiness are best facilitated in humility, vulnerability and authenticity. When we are true to who we are, and not being something we believe we need to be, we are are clear, consistent, happy, and fulfilled. Authenticity is honest, fresh and real. It is inspiring and attractive. It is freeing and effortless. It encourages others to follow through our clarity and it leads to the outcomes we desire.
Next time you find yourself in a situation where you are engaging and interacting with others as yourself this question — am I being someone I believe I need to be in order to manage or define an outcome. Or, am I being refreshingly and honestly authentic to myself and displaying the energy and personality that makes me special, unique, and awesome? Think about it. Trust that who you are is all you need to be and go forth from there!
