One quality that I have observed in massively successful executives is authenticity.
Without authenticity, it is virtually impossible to display effective leadership. When you pretend, sooner or later, people recognize it and you are exposed and that further impacts your already low self-esteem.
We live in an age where we are being conditioned on how we should look, feel, think and behave by marketers. The competition to appear happiest, healthiest and smartest on social media is making it worse.
Despite these challenges, here are three ways to start your journey of authenticity:
Be honest while speaking, and develop the habit of telling the truth: Very often we try not to displease others. We lie to cover up, to save face, or to pursue an agenda. A common belief is: It’s Ok to lie if it doesn’t hurt anyone. The problem is: the more we lie, the farther we go away from being authentic.
Display vulnerability: We are too busy showing the perfect picture to the world and along the way we have lost our souls. The things that make you feel weak, and you fear sharing, hold the secret of authenticity. To start with, share them in a safe space, with close friends, colleagues and family members. More often than not, you would realize they mattered much less than you thought.
Embrace your uniqueness: All of us are wired differently and each one carries a unique purpose. Resist yourself from conforming or fitting in. Take time for reflection and honest conversations with yourself. Get clarity on your values and keep a check if your actions are aligned with those values.
Consider the fact that the journey to authenticity is a slow process. It will take time, so do not rush.
Change your game!
Vivek