The Dread of Authenticity

"I've been observing, and it feels like everyone here is wearing a mask. Are we not supposed to be our real selves at work?"

"Well, think of it this way: just like trees, we all grow differently. An oak doesn’t try to bend like a willow. It stands strong, just as it is. That’s its power."

"But what if being myself backfires? What if it leads to criticism, or worse, failure?"

"Consider this – a river doesn’t drink its own water. Your true self isn’t just for you; it's meant to enrich others. Yes, you might face criticism, but the trust and connections you build are the real rewards, the kind that last."

"It sounds great, but opening up can be really scary. How do you deal with the fear of being judged?"

"Imagine walking into a room and your honesty is like a light. Being open doesn’t mean you fear the dark; it means you’re the reason it’s not so dark anymore. By showing your true self, you invite others to do the same."

"So, being genuine could encourage others to drop their guards too?"

"Exactly. When you let your guard down, you give others permission to do the same. It’s freeing, and this freedom, this shared courage, it unites and strengthens everyone."

"I guess it all starts with the bravery to be that first light, then?"

"Right. And remember, a brightly lit room always begins with a single candle. Your honesty is that first light. Reminds me of this quote by Marianne Williamson:

'Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.'"