It’s Always Personal: Why Professionalism Without the Personal Element Is Holding You Back By Riah Creisson

For years, we’ve been told that professionalism means keeping our personal selves out of the workplace. We hear phrases like, “It’s nothing personal, it’s just business,” as though we can separate our ambitions and identities. But what if this idea is more harmful than helpful? What if it’s always personal?

In my upcoming book, “It’s Always Personal,” launching this week on Amazon, I take a deep dive into how buying into the belief that professionalism is devoid of personal contributions can actually stunt our growth and development—both professionally and personally. The truth is, we cannot ignore the personal motivations that are inherently connected to our professional goals. Those who have embraced this reality have thrived in their careers and in life.

The Professional Mask: A Limiting Belief

We often wear professionalism like a mask, believing we must leave our personal characteristics at the door to succeed. This mask gives the illusion of uniformity, but it’s inanimate, incapable of any real achievement on its own. What really drives our success is the person behind the mask, complete with personal desires, motivations, and ambitions.

When we struggle to reach success, it might be because we are only dealing with our efforts through a “professional” lens, suppressing the personal aspirations that are trying to surface. By denying these ambitions, we limit the full potential of what we can accomplish.

Finding Balance Between Personal and Professional

My book not only helps individuals navigate the tricky balance between their personal and professional identities, but it also provides a crucial lesson for organizations. Many businesses make the mistake of erasing the personal element from their workplace culture, expecting employees to perform at high levels while ignoring their personal needs and motivations. This results in strained relationships and an environment where tension builds.

But when an organization acknowledges that behind every “professional” is a person whose actions are driven by personal ambitions, employee engagement improves, relationships become stronger, and success becomes a shared experience.

Look Out for the Book Announcement!

Launching this week, “It’s Always Personal” will be available on Amazon in eBook, paperback, and hardcover formats, with an audiobook coming soon. It’s a quick but impactful read for those who feel that their career or professional development has stalled. Maybe it’s because you’ve overlooked the connection between personal and professional growth—and it’s time to embrace both.

If you’re ready to unlock the next level of your career by understanding the power of personal identity, this book is for you. Stay tuned for the official launch announcement!

Riah Creisson

International People Development Consultant

The Job Search Maverick

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