Importance of Being Yourself

I've realised that life is easier when I am my authentic self. As a child, I felt uneasy around others and believed I needed to act a certain way to be accepted. This feeling intensified in middle and high school, making it difficult to be natural and genuine, especially around girls. Unfortunately, this phoniness continued into my 20s, with me trying to sound like everyone else in the Army, trying to live the stereotypical soldier's life.

I now understand that fear is why most people are not authentic at work. Having a healthy fear of colleagues acting in their self-interest is important, but being fake only reveals a small part of our true identity and can be easily spotted. However, we can still protect ourselves and be true to ourselves by being smart.

Here are five reasons why being yourself at work is crucial:

? Being yourself builds trust: As leaders, it's our responsibility to show vulnerability and honesty to build trust. People appreciate getting to know the real you, and they'll feel more comfortable being who they are.

? Being yourself opens up opportunities: When I worked up the courage to tell my manager I was unhappy and wanted to move into MI, it strengthened our relationship and opened up opportunities for me.

? Being yourself helps the organisation: If everyone can be candid and speak their mind, it operates faster and better. Candour is crucial.

? Being yourself feels good: It's exhausting to disguise who we are, and letting go of that persona is a relief.

In summary, being authentic at work is essential for building trust, opening up opportunities, helping the organisation, and feeling good. It's time to release the fear and show our true selves.