Lalita Raman
In this age of information and technology overload, there are many times each of us possibly feel that we are on a hamster wheel, one that we are unable to get off. We try to copy others who we think are a role model of our definition of success. We go to spas, movies and seek various avenues to run away into this so-called fantasy land.
What do we need most at this juncture?
A journey within, to follow the inner voice that has both gentleness and clarity and helps you find who you really are. We need to be bold and courageous to follow this inner journey, to face who we are, what we are capable of, what we are uncomfortable with and be true and honest to the inner core.
When you go through adversity in your life, your real character is tested. Authenticity is who you are, how you relate to others, discovering your talents, your own energies and passions. Being who you are is when your audio, video and thoughts are all in sync. There is no mask or different strokes for different people.
I believe that authenticity doesn’t come from status, titles, qualifications, or the amount that you have in your bank account but authenticity is:
- to Know
- to Be
- to Accept
- to Create
Yourself
Keys To Authenticity
1. Self awareness – knowing who you are and being you and finding contentment and fulfillment in that. It also relates to how you relate to others and the way they see you. If you truly know yourself, and project yourself in the same way, others perception of you will be the same as what you know “you” to be.
2. Talents – find out what you are capable of, passionate about, and what appeals to you. Discover your talents and develop them.
3. Lead with your soul – you’ll make an impact on others only if you empower yourself to lead with your soul, your inner voice and accept who you are. Your inner drive is the one that will steer you through doubts, fears and negative energy.
Throughout our life we need to question our beliefs, learnings, see around us and listen to the reality that surrounds us.
There is no point doing yoga or meditation or charity and considering yourself authentic, if you don’t know how to be courteous to your neighbor, your surroundings and respect the living space around you.
Have you asked these questions of yourself ?
1. What would you like to do?
2. When you like what you do, what does that mean to you ?
3. When you don’t have what you like what does that mean to you ?
4. Do you have passion and enthusiasm in doing what you are doing?
5. Do you have the talents and skills to do what you love doing? Are you willing to develop those talents once you have discovered them
I love the title and the ideas you share regarding the authenticity of our leadership. To truly be authentic we must first understand who we are and how we impact our world. Thanks for making me think.
Thank you Dr Hampton. I have shared my own journey.
WOW. Lead with your soul. Powerful. Why are we so afraid to show who we really are? When we truly show up as ourselves we have infinitely more influence than embodying a false persona could ever give us. It can be scary to listen to our inner knower but it’s a skill that can be learned and serves us well. Excellent post, Lalita!
Thank you Alli. A relevant question you have asked why are we afraid to show who we really are. I think that comes from lack of self awareness and may be also because in today’s day and age there is so much hypocrisy. An over emphasis is made on elevator speeches, fake it till you make it that people consider putting on masks.
Genuineness and authenticity is lost in the process.
Thank you Alli. I appreciate.
A lovely metaphor. Thank you Chris. Very kind of you.