From Stuck to Fulfilled: Embrace Authenticity in Your Career

Yesterday, I was on a call with a client who kept saying, “I don’t want to lie” and “I just want to be me.” And I wholeheartedly agreed with her! Authenticity is key to a successful career search. Why? Let’s use the words of Oprah:

“As you become more clear about who you really are, you’ll be better able to decide what is best for you.”

Being authentic starts first with knowing yourself and who you truly authentically are. This is tough because we listen to years and years of people telling us who we are: family, friends, coworkers, and bosses. We form opinions of ourselves, and these opinions are not always positive ones. But taking a step back and looking at things like your personality, natural strengths, values, passions, and motivations can help you find that path that makes sense for you, and you alone.

Authenticity also plays a part in the jobs you seek, how you represent yourself throughout your brand, and how you present yourself in an interview. Just remember, if you are compromising on who you are, your authentic self, you won’t be satisfied and happy in the long run. So, know who you are and stay true to that. No one does you better than you and the right company will love you!

So, how do you start this journey towards authenticity?

Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on your life and career. What activities energize you? What are your proudest accomplishments? What values are non-negotiable for you? Journaling, meditation, and talking to trusted friends or a coach can help clarify these aspects of yourself.

Personality Assessments: Tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), CliftonStrengths, or the Enneagram can provide insights into your natural preferences and strengths. These assessments can highlight aspects of your personality that may have been overlooked or undervalued in your current career.

Seek Feedback: Sometimes, others see strengths in us that we don’t recognize. Ask trusted colleagues, friends, and family for feedback about your strengths and unique qualities. Be open to their perspectives, but also filter their feedback through your own self-awareness.

Identify What You Love: What do you love to do? What activities or topics make you lose track of time? Incorporating things that you connect with into your career can lead to greater satisfaction and fulfillment.

Align Your Career with Your Values: Make sure your career path aligns with your core values. If you value creativity, seek out roles that allow you to express that. If helping others is important to you, look for opportunities to make a positive impact.

Authentic Branding: Your resume, LinkedIn profile, and personal brand should reflect your authentic self. Highlight experiences and achievements that align with who you are and what you value. Use your authentic voice in your professional narrative.

Interview with Integrity: During interviews, be honest about your strengths and areas for growth. Discuss what you’re passionate about and why the role aligns with your values and goals. Authenticity will resonate with the right employer and set the foundation for a successful and satisfying career.

Remember, this journey toward authenticity is ongoing. As you grow and evolve, so will your understanding of your authentic self. Embrace this evolution and allow it to guide your career decisions.

Ultimately, being authentic in your career search means finding a role and an organization where you can thrive as your true self. When you align your work with who you are at your core, you’re more likely to find joy, fulfillment, and success. Stay true to yourself, and trust that the right opportunities will come. Your authenticity is your greatest asset—embrace it and let it shine!

Are you struggling to figure out your true authentic self? I can help you! Come check out the Career Clarity Roadmap where we will dig into who you truly authentically are and what kind of career is going to best align with you. Click here to learn more and let’s begin that journey of discovering you!