
February's Theme: The Power of Authenticity
Do you agree that most of us would rather be known as real - “authentic” - rather than fake? What does authenticity mean to you?
Here’s one definition:
“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.” - Brene Brown
By reading this quote slowly and word-by-word, I discovered three phrases that resonated with me:
Daily Practice - Daily. Every day. Every single day. This is not “I’ve done it once and so I will be forever authentic.” No…every day I will do the work that it takes to be true to myself, my values, my boundaries, and my being. Every day I will move forward and let go of yesterday’s mistakes. Are you willing to do the work?
Letting Go - Giving myself permission to let go of those things that make me true to a title - but not true to myself. It may be easy to live up to a title’s expectations. Do you know who you are without a title? Which “you” is authentic?
Embracing Who We Are - Do you understand that not everything is related to what we do? What we feel and need is just as important as what we do. You are a human being - not a human doer. Do you know what lights you up?
The word “authenticity” has been coming up for me this month on both a technology level and a personal level.
I have concerns when artificial intelligence is celebrated as a time-saving method to blatantly create fake photos or words that are not our own for purposes of selling ourselves. To me, this is not authentic.
No issue exists for me with using technology as an aid to brainstorm ideas, but I do have an issue with material that is purposefully created to try to trick me into believing false or misleading information.
I’m also finding that authenticity can often be intuitively felt in my personal relationships. I enjoy being with those who have done the work and know who they are.
There’s a feeling of safety with those with whom I can open my heart, knowing that I’m in a relationship that includes freedom to ask curious questions without fear of judgment.
I love leaving a luncheon or a work meeting without worrying if someone misinterpreted something I said because I know that I can count on that person to ask me to explain if there is a possibility that my intent and my words are not aligning. What awesome heartfelt relationships in which to be seen and heard!
It occurs to me that, because it takes courage to understand our “why” and an agreement around how to “be” in a relationship, many may find it easier to live by the expectations of others without truly living authentically.
There’s another way. It is a daily practice. It takes building strengths and understanding values. But authenticity is a worthy goal - and therefore why I coach.
What would living an authentic life mean to you? What’s possible from here?
In your corner,
- Linda