I have a confession to make… I don’t own a single blazer.
I do have a corduroy jacket with the elbow pads from way back when I wanted to look like a professor, but I’m not sure that counts. As a small business owner attending many “business casual” networking events, I was starting to have a bit of a crisis over this fact. (read more on the blog here).
What I realized through all this is that whether it’s clothing, the way you talk, the activities you enjoy, or ideas you share, there is a danger of allowing the critics (inner or outer) silence your most authentic self. It’s dangerous because we are all here to be fully engaged and expressive human beings.
Holding back pieces of ourselves deprives the world of our unique perspectives and leads to feeling unfulfilled and exhausted.
I think this is something that we all grapple with, whether it’s doing the personal growth and exploration to uncover who we are, or finding ways to honor that authentic self in “the real world”.
Here are some resources for uncovering and embracing authenticity:
The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brené Brown
Yes, I am a huge fan, if you haven’t figured that out yet! I also feel like there’s a Brené Brown book for every personal growth need. To add proof to this, if you’re looking for something that is more geared toward the corporate work environment, check out Dare to Lead, her latest publication.
Defining Authenticity by Seth Godin, seths.blog
Authenticity in the Workplace by Jaime Fuentes, One Idea Away
Becoming More Authentic: Accept Yourself and Stop Seeking Approval by Tejal Patel, tinybuddha.com
Finding your Voice at Work by Devon Grilly