We’ve all heard the rallying cry: “Bring your authentic self to work!” It sounds great on company brochures and in HR seminars, but let’s be real – it’s not as simple as flipping a switch. As an executive coach, I’ve seen firsthand the struggle many face in balancing professionalism with personal authenticity.

The Work Persona: Our Carefully Crafted Armor

Most of us have meticulously constructed a “work persona” over the years. This persona is the result of a lifetime of conformity messages, societal pressures, performance reviews, and well-meaning advice from mentors and family. It’s our armor against office politics and the constant pressure to perform and advance.

But here’s the million-dollar question: Where does this leave our “real self”? If I brought my unfiltered, brunch-time personality into the boardroom, I’d probably be having a little chat with HR (and not the fun kind, trust me).

Enter the Ladder of Authenticity

This is where the concept of authenticity as a ladder comes into play. Between our true selves and our work personas lies a vast field of opportunity. The goal isn’t to throw professionalism out the window, but to find ways to express genuine aspects of ourselves within the workplace framework.

Beyond the Surface: What True Authenticity Looks Like at Work

When we talk about authenticity at work, it’s easy to focus on visible cues like wearing bright colors or speaking up more in meetings. While these can be steps in the right direction, true authenticity goes much deeper. Let’s explore what it really means to bring your authentic self to work:

1. Advocating for Your Values: Authenticity means standing up for what you believe in. This could involve voicing ethical concerns about a project, proposing initiatives that align with your personal values, or challenging practices that don’t sit right with you.
2. Sharing Your Unique Perspective: Your experiences and background shape how you see the world. Don’t be afraid to offer insights from your diverse life experiences during problem-solving sessions.
3. Being Vulnerable: Authenticity often requires courage. It might mean admitting when you don’t know something, asking for help, or sharing appropriate personal challenges you’ve overcome.
4. Expressing Your Natural Communication Style: If you’re naturally humorous, let that appropriate humor shine through. If you’re more reserved, communicate your need for processing time before responding.
5. Being Honest About Your Limitations: Acknowledge areas where you need improvement, be upfront about realistic timelines, and don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know, but I’ll find out.”
6. Sharing Your Long-Term Goals: Discuss your career aspirations openly with your manager and seek opportunities that align with your personal development objectives.
7. Expressing Your Creativity: Suggest unconventional solutions, approach problems from unique angles, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box.

Climbing Your Own Ladder of Authenticity

Now that we’ve explored what authenticity truly looks like, let’s consider how to climb this ladder:

1. Define Your Authenticity: What does being authentic mean to you? This definition is deeply personal and unique to each individual.
2. Rate Your Current Rung: On a scale from 1 (not authentic at all) to 10 (the epitome of authenticity), where do you stand right now at work? Be honest with yourself – this is your starting point.
3. Visualize the Next Step: If you’re at a 4, what would a 5 look like? Maybe it’s sharing a unique perspective in your next team meeting, or having an honest conversation with your manager about your career goals.
4. Take Small, Intentional Steps: Choose one small way to express more of your authentic self each week. Remember, it’s not about grand gestures, but consistent, meaningful actions.

As you climb this ladder, you may find that not only do you feel more fulfilled, but you also inspire others to embrace their authentic selves. This ripple effect can transform a workplace, creating an environment where diversity of thought is celebrated, innovation thrives, and people feel truly valued for who they are.

The Ripple Effect of Authenticity

As you become more comfortable expressing your authentic self, you’ll likely notice something magical happening. Not only will you feel more aligned with your true self, but you’ll also create space for others to do the same. This is the key to fostering that sense of belonging we all crave in our work environments.

Your Turn to Climb

So, I invite you to reflect: On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your authenticity at work right now? And what’s one small experiment you could try to nudge that number up just one point?

Remember, climbing the ladder of authenticity isn’t about changing who you are to fit in at work. It’s about finding ways to express your true self within the professional context. It’s a journey of aligning your internal values and personality with your external actions and expressions at work.

As you consider your next step up the authenticity ladder, think beyond the surface-level changes. How can you bring more of your values, perspectives, and unique qualities into your work? The journey to authenticity is ongoing, but each step brings you closer to a more genuine and satisfying professional life.

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Let’s inspire each other to keep climbing, one authentic rung at a time!