Are authenticity and success mutually excluding?

Many who know me since my early internship days remark that I haven′t changed significantly throughout my career. Is this possible? I do believe I have changed, but always growing from my truth and my essence, never to a point that would mischaracterize ‘the real Juliana’. And this is possible, while not very common.

Candidly, I have learned to appreciate and value my inner light over the years, even if not fully blending with the crowd. I have flipped the fears I had about my unique traces, into a source of strength for me and others around me. I am focused on results, not on solving issues the way others have done. I am powered by collective respect that drives mine and others′ authentic versions.

This question made me reflect on the tactics that enabled me to grow authentically over the years; despite different cultures, countries, and functional challenges.

Embrace Authentic Core Values:

Our values are the light that guide us from inside, they provide stability and clarity during chaos. Our values not only serve as a compass, directing our decisions towards alignment with our authentic selves, but they also provide a place of safety and refuge, they become the guardrails of our essence. Choose working teams and environments that share common values, otherwise the inner struggle becomes unbearable over time. I have been fortunate to work in a place that appreciates different points of views, diversity of contributions and styles.?

Cultivate Authentic Resilience:

Resilience is the anchor that keeps us steady when life's storms rage. It is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and persevere in adversity. Without losing your essence. Shift your mindset to view challenges as opportunities for growth. Every obstacle becomes a chance to learn, evolve, and become stronger. Embracing resilience allows us to remain authentic, regardless of external circumstances.

Relevant Authenticity by Staying Grounded on the external context:

Authenticity is our “special sauce”. Embrace your unique strengths, vulnerability, and foster genuine connections. Importantly, authenticity cannot ignore the context. It needs to embrace it to translate your true self, accordingly, driving the desired positive impact and fostering reciprocal respect. I have a very good friend that says ... 'Frequently the right question is NOT IF, BUT HOW′ It is not if you should be yourself, but how you will express it and bring others along.

Commit to Authentic Self-Care:

There is no true growth without self- care. We each need to choose to nourish our body, mind, and soul to show up as our best self. And this is very, very personal. Activities that bring joy are not only desirable, but they are also crucial for our wellbeing. Know yourself, set boundaries, and find balance so you can enjoy the ride, even when it gets bumpy.

Seek Authentic Supporters and Critics, not Judges:

I have learned, through motherhood, caring for my parents, and through being a leader, that no one thrives alone. We each need to create a support system with those who can help us create a network for growth. Collaboration fosters community, tapping into collective wisdom and diverse perspectives. When we are supported by a network, staying true to our essence becomes less challenging.?

Multiply Authenticity:?

Be empathetic with the differences and help others appreciate diversity as well. As you reach out to understand others from a place of curiosity, you uncover the best venues to get others to understand, accept and appreciate your uniqueness.

Change is imminent, but growth and development are a personal choice. Growing authentically is an empowering journey. Navigate life with grace and integrity. View challenges as opportunities for growth, confident in your ability to learn while staying true to yourself. Your unique essence is your superpower.

#Authenticity #SelfCare #Support #Growth

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