Last week, a training participant asked a question that stuck with me: “How can I apply this material in a way that feels authentic to me?”
In addition to answering her question, we talked about how powerful it would be if everyone at work felt comfortable showing up as their genuine selves—and what that might look like in practice.
Our discussion stayed with me. While I am committed to showing up authentically in my work, I started reflecting on my online presence, especially my professional photos and website.
Five years ago, when I launched InterHuman Solutions, I built my own website, and my spouse took my “professional” pictures in our backyard. In those early days, I was juggling a full-time job and building my business in the margins of my day, one step (and one backyard photo) at a time.
I recently decided to update my photos (and am working on my website) to reflect who I am today—yes, even with a few more grey hairs! The process reminded me that authenticity isn’t static; it evolves as we do.
It’s worth periodically pausing to ask ourselves: Am I showing up authentically, both in person and online? If not, what can I do to ensure that my words, actions, and presence better reflect who I truly am?
And if you need help creating an environment in which all of your team members feel comfortable bringing their whole selves to work, free to reach out!