Be Authentic... But know when to adapt

Authenticity is at the core of who I am and it’s also one of the key ingredients that makes up my unique methodology within the business. And when you master it, you'll develop the communication skills to open up, express your feelings and use your voice.

Authenticity is the space where we allow ourselves to show up as who we really are and be seen. It not only creates trust but builds deep, meaningful relationships both personally and professionally. It’s your ability to align your behaviour and decisions with your values and beliefs.

Adaptability is one the top 5 behavioural skills that companies require most (according to the LinkedIn Learning Workplace report). It means you have the ability to flex and change according to your environment, whether that’s your skills or learning to be ok with uncertainty. Which we all know has dominated our lives over the last few years.

But you can’t have one without the other. You can’t say that one is more important than the other. It’s about embracing the ebb and flow of how the two work hand in hand, for you. But be careful, overdo the adaptability without authenticity, and you’ll come across insincere. Dial up the authenticity too much and you’ll struggle to be a cohesive team player both at work and in society.

So how do you get the balance just right?

This week, I’m sharing 3 ways to make it feel a little easier. And if you feel this is a challenge showing up in your life right now, keep reading and click the link below to listen to this week’s podcast episode, where we explore this in depth.

SHOW WHO YOU ARE

In finding the balance between authenticity and adaptability, you have to be able to understand what makes you, well you. This includes your strengths, your weaknesses, your values and what you believe in. Do you know when someone’s crossed the line? Are you clear on your non-negotiables?

WHAT MASKS ARE YOU WEARING?

Authenticity means being vulnerable (this isn’t the same as sharing everything about yourself) and when we find ourselves in situations where we’re performing, fronting or pretending, it’s usually a sign that you’re wearing a mask. Think of it as a form of self-protection, so people can’t see the real you.

WHERE ARE YOU REFUSING TO DO SOMETHING DIFFERENTLY?

If you’re not willing to adopt a different way of doing something, I want you to ask why. Does it feel like you’ll lose your authenticity if you do? Is there a belief that you have to be authentic 100% of the time? Being able to adapt is a key part of ‘fitting in’ with society. You can still be aligned with your values AND adapt. They aren’t mutually exclusive.

As always, I'd love to hear what's helped you, what's resonated and what you want more of, so drop me an email hello@amiras.co.uk or drop me a DM @the_communicationexpert.

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HOW ARE YOU BEING AUTHENTIC? WHERE ARE YOU ADAPTING TOO MUCH? HOW IS THIS IMPACTING YOUR LIFE?

I’ve shared this week’s journal prompt above so take 5, grab your phone, a notepad or record your thoughts on a voicenote and spend time reflecting on this question.

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