Can we really live and lead authentically?

Okay. This is one of my favorite words, however it’s also a word that is overused in the corporate (and non corp) world, thus being tagged as a current ‘buzz word’.

But here’s the deal with Authenticity, it is not easy to embrace. In fact, it’s tough.

The world is probably in the most unauthentic era ever.

We are bogged down with social media pressure and expectations, false imagery, massive shifts in the employment landscape, generational shifts on leadership ideals and these are just to name a few. This makes practising authenticity tough.

Currently, millennials make up the majority of the workforce and by 2020, they will make up 70%. Gen Z’s are also entering the work force in a big way and Baby Boomers are re-joining the work force as consultants, temp workers and advisors.

There is a lot of confusion out there. Living and leading authentically is certainly a challenge.

In some corporations, there can be up to 5 generations within a company.

Confusing right? This means that leadership must be highly adaptable. Flexibility is crucial in order to accommodate the different needs, ideas and perspectives.

Let’s take a look at what authenticity truly means. But first, let’s move past the buzz word. I believe, more than anything, the greatest thing we can do as leaders, parents, employers, employees and volunteers, is lead and live as authentically as possible for ourselves and as our contribution to our communities and our country.

Here’s the Webster Dictionary definition of Authentic: true to one's own personality, spirit, or character

Pretty solid right?

Here’s Brené Brown’s (my favorte author and speaker) definition:

‘Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.’

I love this.

So, in our pursuit to live and lead more authentic lives, to cultivate and live with more joy and perhaps ease, here are a few ways we can begin to make those positive strides together.

Allow yourself to be wonderfully imperfect and know you are enough. Even more important, your neighbour is enough. Save the judging and comparison.

Set boundaries for yourself. Let go of the ‘Yes Woman’ syndrome. We can say no, or ‘not right now’.

Practice empathy. Lean in, and really listen to your children, your partner, your employee’s, your friends. Ask questions.

Know that everyone is struggling, and it’s okay.

Dance your a** off even if people are watching.

I’m Katy, join me in living your true self. It feels frigginawesome.