Being authentic is one of the key characteristics of people who flourish and are happier and more successful.
Being authentic is something that we should all be striving to do.
We should all be looking to show ourselves in the most authentic way and not worry what other people think.
Being authentic means coming from a real place within. It is when our actions and words are congruent with our beliefs and values. It is being ourselves, not an imitation of what we think we should be or have been told we should be. There is no “should” in authentic.
https://psychcentral.com/lib/ways-of-living-an-authentic-life/
Authenticity is about knowing your own values and connecting with yourself about what makes you feel good.
People will instinctively know if you are being authentic. People won’t be surprised if you are acting authentically. They will be able to predict your behaviour. This doesn’t mean that they will like all your behaviours, but you will be comfortable with how you act.
1. Be true to yourself
This is the idea that you are truthful about what your values are. If you are earning good money, have a big house and a great car but you are miserable, you are not being authentic. You are allowing others to decide what is of value to you.
Career Coaching can help you think through your values and what is important to you in your life. I would be asking you questions about your strengths and when you feel at your best.
2. Treat Other, the way you want to be treated.
Love thy neighbour or whichever way you think about it, this one is fundamental in our society as a whole as well as for your personal life.
You want to be treated with respect, with gratitude and with love. This means that when you interact with others, make sure you are being authentically respectful. You know when you are seeing fake kindness, so don’t offer that to others.
3. Be a Good Listener
When I am at my best, I am authentically listening. I am in the moment and that person has my sole attention. Their story is all consuming and I totally hear their message. Most people are just thinking “what am I going to say next?”.
This active listening is authentic and incredibly powerful. You make true connections with people if you really listen.
4. Make your Actions Count
Authentic leadership is about your actions being congruent with your beliefs. This can be showing true sympathy and empathy with people when they are in difficult situations. It could be taking your full paternity leave. It could be telling people how to improve.
Role modelling the behaviours you want and therefore being authentic is a tool that you must not ignore. People see our actions and want to know that we are following our values.
Are you out of touch with the “real you”?
If you are feeling out of touch with the “real you” then exploring your true self and generating authentic leadership could be something you want to explore. Contact me here