Speaking and acting with authenticity at work requires knowing yourself.

getty

Pearls aren’t born smooth. They’re formed when a grain of grit enters an oyster’s shell, and the mollusk coats that irritant with layer after layer of nacre. Slowly, over time, something luminous is created. I reach for this metaphor often, because it exemplifies the fact that the moments in our lives that are the most disruptive—the moments when proverbial grit gets into our protective shell—are often the most transformative. And those are the times that can produce the most astounding result: a pearl. Authenticity in business works the same way. It requires courage to show up as yourself, and it isn’t always easy—but when you do, the results can be luminous.

The Business Case for Being Real

The term “authenticity” gets thrown around a lot, and I’ve found that many people mistake it for oversharing. Authenticity in business isn’t about disclosure; it’s about self-awareness and alignment between your inner truth and your actions. It’s about understanding and honoring your core values, desires, and motivations, without feeling compelled to broadcast every detail to the world.

That alignment is invaluable in business, where people are inspired by authenticity. When what you say and how you show up truly reflect who you are, people sense it. They are more likely to trust and follow you—and that relationship of trust is the foundation for the win-win outcomes that good business is built on.

Authenticity Requires Courage

Being bold and courageous sounds fun and exciting, but can also be frightening. I’ve seen it in nearly everyone I’ve coached. People worry about not fitting the mold, fear judgment, or simply standing out. However, as scary as authenticity can be, the cost of inauthenticity is even greater.

When you shrink your true self for others’ comfort or say yes just to keep the peace, it erodes not only your credibility but also your sense of self. And the stress of living misaligned with our authentic purpose takes a real toll on our bodies and minds.

Self-Care as the Path to Authenticity

Overcoming fear and embracing the courage to speak and act authentically requires one thing above all else: knowing yourself. That’s impossible when you’re running on empty. I’ve found that self-care creates the stillness needed to hear yourself clearly. Self-care can take many forms—for me, it’s painting.

I picked the hobby up in my late forties, and it has allowed me to quiet the logistical, practical part of my brain and tap into the more creative side. It has also taught me to let go of perfectionism: Got some paint outside the lines? That’s okay. Mixed up a couple of colors? Fine, it makes a beautiful new color. It’s a form of self-care that allows me to extend myself grace while building self-awareness. And that self-awareness is what allows me to approach others with authenticity.

Authenticity in Business: Your Greatest Asset

Leading with authenticity in business is not without challenges. But the hurdles it poses are well worth the payout: living a life that truly aligns with your wants, needs, and vision. And when you do live your authentic self, that will build trust. The key to success isn’t looking outward but inward—and that starts with taking care of yourself well enough to actually hear what’s there.