How to Lead Authentically? Live It Real™
We all want to be successful in life – both at work and at home, but do we really know what that looks like to us or are we using someone else’s definition?
There are so many differing opinions out there it’s hard to tell which one to follow. After all, the “experts” should know how you should live your life, right?
Um, not so much.
Isn’t it time you decided what success means for you?
(A resounding YES! is the correct answer here, just in case you were wondering).
In my Live It Real™ Leadership and Life Coaching programs, I work with successful women who either own their own business or who lead a team within the company they work for. I take them through a process that helps them define what success looks like for them and teach them how to apply it to their daily lives.
My process starts with this: Know It. Own It. Live It Real.™
Know Your Why
This is the foundation that is essential to creating success in everything you do. Know why you do it. What’s your driving motivation? What keeps you going when business gets challenging? Why do you go to work every day?
I’ll give you a hint – it’s never about the money.
As Simon Sinek said in his TED Talk video, “People don’t buy what you do. They buy why you do it.”
Own Your Talents
When you think of a co-worker you admire – someone who comes to work and regularly accomplishes their goals – what makes them so good at their job? What are their skillsets and natural talents? Pretty easy to name them, right?
Now, if I asked you what makes you so good at what you do, would you be able to give me a list of how you bring value to your company?
Not as easy, is it.
It’s a must to be able to articulate your gifts and talents, especially when people look to you to the be leader. Ask yourself what makes you unique? What skills do you have that set you apart from the crowd? If you’re having a hard time coming up with answers, ask your friends, family and colleagues what they see. You may be surprised at how others view you.
Live It Real™
Why do we show up differently at work than we do at home? Are you subscribing to a definition of how you should behave based on the position you hold?
We hear a lot about being authentic and authentic leadership, but what does that really mean?
Authenticity.
What does that really mean?
Be real.
You’ve got to stop wearing the mask. It inhibits your ability to form true relationships and build trust within the organization.
As a leader, you model authenticity for those you lead – it’s crucial to do so because it encourages them to do the same. That’s how change gets its start. Plus, it makes the work you do so much easier and enjoyable.
Your willingness to share all parts of you is crucial to building those relationships and allows you to draw on your experiences and passions which enhance your value in the workplace.
Who are you really? How do you want to be described?
Decide today to remove the mask that stands in the way of you showing up as the real you. Start to behave in the way you want others to see you.
Choose to be the most authentic you, you can be.
Choose to Live It Real™!
