Are you being your true self?

When was the last time you felt truly alive and engaged?

If you're feeling anything like I did just a few months ago - that question probably comes as a bit of a gut punch.?

But you're not alone. Shockingly far from it.

A lot of us are quietly struggling in our own personal black caves.

With 77% of professionals (including leaders) saying that work stress is negatively impacting their physical and mental health.?

I've also gone through this multiple times.?

While it was hard to overcome, I've found that with consistent effort and a new approach, I could elevate my approach to leadership and life as a whole.?

Now, I'm flourishing as my most genuine self.?

Are you leading with your authentic self?

We live in a time where there is much anxiety, scepticism and cynicism flying around. We all feel it, whether that's conscious or not.?

But believe it or not - that doesn't mean we should compartmentalise our lives as much as we do.?

From work to home to fitness, to you name it… they're all interconnected.??

And the most fundamental aspect of leadership often goes unspoken well, until now that is.

Enter Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, or as I've adapted it, The Peak Personal Performance Pyramid. This is a great framework for understanding exactly what you need to be able to perform at your absolute best - and enjoy it, too.?

It's very similar to self-actualisation, as achieving peak personal performance is the process of realising and fulfilling your talents, potential, and capabilities.?

Often considered the pinnacle of psychological development, it's the key to achieving the highest level of personal growth and self-understanding. A crucial part of being a genuine leader.?

Why authentic leadership matters?

What's the cornerstone of effective teamwork and collaboration??

It's trust.

Authentic leaders who are transparent and consistent in their actions (and about their challenges) create a greater sense of trust among their team.

But achieving this level of authenticity requires you to:?

• Have a deep understanding of oneself
• Make a commitment to continuous improvement
• Take an empathetic approach to others

Don't have all three just yet? Use my actionable tips for realising your true potential:

1. Start by setting goals

What drives you?

• Spending as much time with your family and friends as possible??
• A creative pursuit??
• Something greater than yourself? Learning?

Whatever it is that drives you - don't just dream about achieving it.

Because a dream without a goal is exactly that - just a dream. And eventually, it becomes self-resentment, which turns into disappointment.

But I know it's hard. Especially when you have so many forces pulling you in all different directions. It can be hard to determine what's actually your goal - and when it's someone else's. Or, you might not know what your goals are, and that is also ok.

Bringing back control with Ikigai?

So, how do you connect your professional and personal life??

It all comes down to Ikigai. Otherwise known as the intersection of Passion, Mission, Vocation, and Profession - you may have seen it around before.?

What you can do right now:

Grab a piece of paper, or ideally, your journal and think:

Where do these areas overlap for me? Write a few sentences or create a diagram to visualise your intersection.

2. Practice consistent journaling

Journaling is not writing a diary -it's a bit different. It's about encouraging yourself to reflect deeply on your daily behaviours.

A process that helps you to assess your performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and consider alternative strategies or approaches.?

Here's how I've made it work for me:

• Start daily for a few minutes: consistency is key.?
• Keep it private: Knowing that my journal is a private space makes me more open and honest in my entries.
• Focus on specifics: Writing about specific events or issues rather than generalising. No vagueness! Also, write about a hobby and why it excited you!
• Reflect on the big picture: Consider how my daily activities align with my long-term goals.

What you can do right now:

List 3 major moments when you felt truly engaged and passionate.?

3. Set proper boundaries

Ok. We've talked about realising your potential and finding purpose. But what about protecting our energy?

Make no mistake, this isn't just a piece of advice; it's a strategic imperative if you wish to thrive in both your personal and professional lives.?

And your team will respect you for setting the example - so be a trailblazer! Just don't forget to:

• Define your limits
• Communicate them clearly and set expectations
• Maybe even put it in writing?
• Practice prioritising
• Make time for yourself

What you can do right now:

List everything you want to stop doing or say "yes" to; how long is the list? Also, what would you deprioritise?

4. Visualise to realise

Dedicate a few minutes daily to close your eyes and vividly imagine achieving your goals. Try it now:

Focus on the details: what are you wearing, who is with you, what are the sounds and smells around you??

Most importantly, try to feel the emotions you would experience upon reaching your goals. This emotional connection can significantly enhance the impact of your visualisation efforts.

Are these insights helpful?

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Ps. I have 4 mentorship spaces available - message me to get yours now!?