1MW No. 215: The Authenticity Advantage, Cultivating Weak Ties, and Asking For What You Want
Illustration by @milanicreative

1MW No. 215: The Authenticity Advantage, Cultivating Weak Ties, and Asking For What You Want

Design a Life That Really Matters


The Authenticity Advantage

Steve Jobs and Oracle founder Larry Ellison shared a lifelong friendship. But you wouldn’t have guessed it by how they first met.

As neighbors in Woodside, California, Jobs owned a peacock who would wander onto Ellison’s property in the morning and wake him up. Finally, Ellison had enough and went over to complain.

Jobs opened the door and responded to Ellison’s complaints, saying, “You don’t like that bird either!” He explained that his girlfriend had given him the peacock for his birthday. “I hate that peacock, too. I’m gonna tell her that you complained so much about the bird, we’ve gotta get rid of it. But you’ve got to back me up!”

Worst birthday present ever. Best meet cute ever.?

Here’s the lesson:

Nothing builds trust and leads to real solutions like authenticity.?

Ellison could have taken other routes—ignored the problem, bought earplugs, or even called animal control. However, those choices would have only deepened the divide between him and Jobs. Instead, he chose authenticity, found common ground, and laid the foundation for a lasting relationship.

Don’t settle for the safety of inauthenticity. Be yourself. The right people will value you for it. ?


Listen


Ever wondered how casual connections can lead to big opportunities? This episode explores the surprising power of weak ties—those loose connections that often open doors to new possibilities. Tune in to learn how embracing these connections can strengthen your network and create unexpected opportunities. ?


Learn


?How to Ask For What You Really Want

Are you frustrated because you aren't getting what you want? The solution may be a subtle shift in expressing what you need. Discover the strategies that can transform a hesitant ask into a confident request—and start getting more of what you really want. ?

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David Bator

I write about how work could work.

2 个月

Authenticity is everything. It’s so easy to get caught up in trying to fit a mold, but the real value comes from embracing who we truly are.

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Stephen O.

Earn more, stress less, and free your time—helping business owners create 4-day weekends and lasting freedom.

2 个月

True, but this is a double-edged sword, often the workplace can be too "authentic" when much of what is shared should be left at home Greg McKeown

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Matt Porter, CFP?, AIF?

Tax-Smart Financial Planning for Individuals and Small Business Owners

3 个月

I love the question of how relationships would improve if you were more authentic. I know I hold back quite often because I worry about offending others but relationships are deepened with pure honesty. Great thought as always!

LaDonna Donaldson, PMP

FinTech Program Management Leadership | Strategic IT Engagements | Fiserv Alum

3 个月

Thank you! For me, it's difficult to not be authentic. It causes me stress. When I've been less than authentic for the sake of presenting this "polished" business image, I am disappointed.

Neha Chawla

Business Mindset Coach For Entrepreneurs, CEO’S/CXO’S || Helping you change your setbacks to success II Working on your mindset to bring transformation II Founder of Mind Your Mindsbusiness II Worked with 450+ clients

3 个月

Show your vulnerable self . People love to see how you became what you became.

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