‘My authentic self at work has changed. Does that make me inauthentic?’. A recent client shared how her new priorities and view of life had impacted on how she showed up at work. Continuing this reflection she worried if that meant she had been (or now is) inauthentic, questioning which version was her real self.
The pandemic, and experiences of lockdown, have invited many of us to reassess our priorities and the ways we want to live. We’ve had a chance to reflect on what is important and taken the time to make conscious choices about our future lifestyles. For some that will mean altered behaviours, reactions or relationship interactions - both personal and professional.
Do these changes mean we were once inauthentic? I would have to say no. All our experiences as we navigate through life add colour to who we are. These shape us, make us think, and will continue to do so for the rest of our days.
“The only constant in life is change”
We are not born authentic. Living an authentic life is a conscious decision and takes consistent practice. We will inevitably change over time, and to be authentic is to stay true to yourself in that one moment.
Gemma Brown is an associate certified coach with the International Coach Federation, working with people to navigate successfully through transitions - be it career, relationships or life in general. Her belief is that when we confidently bring our whole selves to all areas of life, anything is possible. Transitions exist in both our personal and business life, and so often, the two fiercely overlap. Coaching with Gemma focuses on you as a whole, enabling you to identify your strengths, build confidence and to live a life with increased purpose and direction. Gemma is based in Cambridgeshire and carries out face to face coaching in the area as well as 1-2-1 coaching via Skype and Zoom. For more about Gemma, visit her 'About' page or contact her directly.