How comfortable are you in your own skin? How frequently do you put up a façade and sacrifice your own values just to fit in and appease others? Do you have pre-conceived notions of how you “should” be showing up at work, e.g., as a female executive, a business owner, or a person of color? Many people are caught in the trap of inauthenticity. There is even a saying for this behavior, “wearing the cloak”, and it is the opposite of being your authentic self.   

Authenticity has become somewhat of a buzz word in the corporate world. Companies are seeking authentic leaders. It is commonly believed that authentic leaders create lasting success, as they are championing those around them without pretense. They create a safe environment for continuous learning and space for their employees to be authentic and express their true selves without fear of ridicule or retribution.  

Authenticity is the fifth practice (a.k.a. discipline) out of the ten featured in this series of how you can unleash the career of your dreams. All ten practices help increase your leadership potential and performance. In case you have missed previous articles on the subject, here is the complete list of the ten practices as defined by the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC):

1. Awareness
2. Acceptance
3. Conscious Choice
4. Trusting the Process
5. Authenticity
6. Fearlessness
7. Confidence
8. Connection
9. Presence in the Moment
10. 100% Energetic Engagement

From my personal experience as a female executive, I would rate my past performance a seven out of ten for being an authentic leader. There were parts of me I would not allow others to see. For instance, I believed that expressing feelings of helplessness, anger, and frustration were not becoming of a female leader, so I suppressed them. Today I know better. What changed my perspective was a 10-month program of self-discovery and becoming a certified coach. Now I know and appreciate that there is only one me in this entire world and that what I contribute to society is unique.  

Today, I rate myself as a ten out of ten for being an authentic leader. Whenever I have an introductory call with a client or potential employer, I write the words “just be you” on the top of my notebook. It has become a mantra for me and reminds me to express my true, authentic self. I no longer feel the need to people-please. I don’t have to be everyone’s proverbial cup of tea. In fact, if I am not your cup of tea that is perfectly fine. Each of us has something unique about us, but it doesn’t necessarily mean we are all meant to be in each other’s lives. Being your authentic self allows you to be you and me to be me. 

You too are one of a kind! As a professional coach and previous corporate leader, I have several tools to help you discover your authentic self. If you are interested in learning more, contact me at angela@belladonnacareercoach.com.