9 Ways I am Getting Real on Linkedin

I’ve come to realize that social media offers highlight reels of professional successes, when behind every accomplishment is a real human.?

So let’s normalize sharing our foundational experiences, deep relationships that have molded our trajectory, and personal interests and habits that shape our daily existence outside of the 9-5. You never know what you share in common with your network, other than an industry, mutually attended conference, or job title.

In that spirit, I’ve rounded up some fun facts about myself and left room for you to take guesses about me — because we all deserve to take ourselves a bit less seriously from time to time.?

1. First pet: We actually had FIVE dogs simultaneously at one point when I was growing up. My love and appreciation for biodiversity can definitely be traced back to my earliest days surrounded by the unconditional love of a furry best friend. Take your best guess at their various breeds!

2. Sports played as a kid: I was a point guard in basketball in elementary school. I also played soccer in high school. Let me know if you think I was a forward, played midfield, defense, or stepped into the net as goalie – and why!

3. Favorite subject in school: History. My early passion for learning the lessons the past has taught us has translated into how I approach my career. I’ve gleaned insights from the mistakes, successes, and unique approaches of legendary historic figures. One of the best books I can recommend to that effect is The Greatest Minds and Ideas of All Time by Will Durant.

4. AM Routine: My mornings set the tone for the rest of the day. I usually prioritize wellness, beginning with a workout and or meditation. For fuel, I often turn to a fast and effective protein shake and later indulge in a decaf oat milk latte. (Shocking, I know, but once the endorphins from my workout kick in I find I don’t need caffeine, which helps me avoid a crash in the afternoon).

5. Favorite movie: The Greatest Showman ; I find the score (by the same songwriters and composers who are behind the smash hit Broadway musical Dear Evan Hansen ) to be especially motivating and empowering. More often than not, I actually listen to the soundtrack before a big speech. Can you guess which song gets me most fired up?

6. Favorite vegan dish: Roasted eggplant tofu is my go-to, BUT I’ve been cooking it for years. I’m always looking to expand the recipes I know how to prepare. Share your favorite vegan dish that’s *easy to prep on a weeknight* in the comments below!

7. PM Routine: By night’s end, my cup is often running low after pouring into founders, youth leaders, policy advocates, my own amazing #DreamTeam , and everyone else who counts on me to stay productive and present for a schedule packed with meetings and responsibility. To recover, I do my best to wind down and allow my mind to rest. This often looks like shutting down screens, avoiding harmful blue light to allow my circadian rhythm to kick in, reading a book, and snuggling with my 1-year-old Australian Labradoodle, Moxy.

8. Dream destination: Thailand! I’ve had the opportunity to travel extensively in my line of work, having been to a total of 5 continents, but haven’t checked this one off my bucket list! Here’s your friendly reminder to schedule your PTO in advance and ensure you prioritize life/work balance and have opportunities to recharge, rest and reflect this year. Believe it or not, we’re already approaching Q2, so get planning. Where are you traveling to in 2023?

9. Best Friend: My Mom. As an only child, we share a special bond and she is ALWAYS there to provide honest feedback and constructive criticism. She also shares my love of nature, as a native of Ecuador, one of the most abundant natural environments. So when I call her thrilled about positive climate news, she truly shares my joy about professional breakthroughs for our ocean and the planet. Who is your closest confidante, someone you call with good news and bad because they always know just the right thing to say??

I promise … I’m interested in knowing more about you than what’s on your resume, so thank you in advance for getting vulnerable and sharing. Want to make your own list to #GetReal with your network on Linkedin? Use this article as a template to share your experience!

– Daniela V. Fernandez