Reflections

Earlier this month I was going to deliver my first keynote speech, but it was postponed because of COVID-19. Since then, I have found myself further reflecting on the subject I was asked to speak on: The Importance of Living Authentically.

My reflection is this. While the horrors of this global pandemic challenge all of us with varying degrees (I count myself as one of the extremely privileged ones - working for a supportive company where I'm able to continue working from home, while fully aware and appreciative of those who are tirelessly working long hours to keep us safe, cared for, delivered to and fed) there is something to be honoured within it all. Amongst all of this, every one of us is being made to share the intricacies of our lives - all the messiness - that we probably felt too exposed to do before:

• The ambitious corporate worker, who pretended not to care that they were missing family mealtimes, now sits with their kid on their lap during conference calls because daycare and schools are closed and grandparents are isolated too
• The colleague who opens a video call with their hoodie on, in place of their suit, acknowledging that their clothes don’t define their effectiveness
• The leader who admits to their team that they’ve had a really tough day in isolation, connecting with them in a way that they never have before
• Those who never made the time to invest in their community are now rallying for healthcare workers, raising funds for protective equipment for hospital staff and doing shop runs for elderly neighbours
• The musicians, comedians and other entertainers who have worked out ways to continue to share their art from balconies across the world
• The fitness professionals who have had to redefine how to motivate and train others, helping those self isolated to keep active

When I finally stand up and deliver my keynote, when this world of horrid is over, everyone will have their own story to share. This is authenticity. May we all have the courage to maintain that authenticity long beyond COVID-19.