In a world where everyone is quick to judge and slow to support it’s hard to be your authentic self. I’ve struggled with this for a long time, sometimes coming across as cold or arrogant to new people. My own insecurities about feeling the need to defend the decisions around who I am often made me question who I wanted to let inside. And this would probably surprise some people as my persona is one of a very outgoing and confident person, but like everyone have a host of insecurities that I worry about.
A few weeks ago I launched my website and my own marketing company, and was met with a host of congratulations and support that was truly overwhelming. The reality is that all of the insecurities that I had placed on myself, were superseded by the skills, experience and relationships that I had built up over my career. It was a very humbling experience. I can’t wait to work with my clients and see their business as well as my own grow.That experience pushed me even harder to make this blog happen. The reality of being who I authentically am is where true success lies. e.e. Cummings has a great quote that reads, “It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”I think the concept of being yourself is a lovely one, but sometimes altruistic as life takes over. The reality is that kids, families, work, and responsibilities can take over and we can get lost in fulfilling day to day tasks and being there for everyone else. Our own personal compass can lose direction, and before we know it we’re heading down a path we never intended on.
When I first saw this piece on Passionate Work by Curt Rosengren it really resonated with me. And 12 years later, it still sits in my desk and reminds me, that when I’m truly passionate about something, that’s where the key to success lies: “Passion is, “The energy that comes from bringing more of YOU into what you do.” It’s the being who you are, and doing what comes naturally. In a way, your Passion Core is the answer to the question, “Who am I?” When you understand that, you can make decisions and look for opportunities that bring you into alignment with that.”In other words, passion comes from the fact that you are aligned with what really makes you tick. And if you’re living your life according to who you really are, people would look at your Passion Core and say, “Yeah, that sounds like you.” It’s not hidden and personal, it’s a no-brainer look at who you are, which is already obvious because you’re living it.”
Are you showing who you really are? Do you engage in healthy environments that are supportive over judgmental?* What relationships are truly supportive of your authentic self? Are you participating in things that you are passionate about in your work, family, or spare time?* Are you letting others’ perceptions and opinions stop you from pursuing something you’re interested in?* What is something that you are really passionate about that you would like to do, but has been on the back burner for a long time?
Knowing who we are is one thing, being who we are is another. Being able to embrace who we are can be a challenge, and finally executing a life filled with passion and authenticity… well, it’s a road less traveled. Let’s change that.
