Authentically You!

By Julie

Over the years, I have read way too many leadership articles and attended numerous training classes on how to be a better leader / A Better Version of Myself.  On the basis - If you do not change – you will never be successful or a great leader.

Over time I did become a better MANAGER – I learned how to captivate an audience with a riveting presentation, deliver transformational business results and command a room with my black suits and intensity.   I achieved success I never imagined (more on that another time). 

At the same time my husband and I were growing our family, and ultimately, I got lost in the “busy-ness” of being a wife, mom, daughter, friend and boss.  These responsibilities demanded my daily attention and provided me with society’s definition of “success” YET I began to drift into someone I did not recognize.  My spirit began to fade, my confidence eroded and my leadership (not management) weakened as I tried to fit into this box I created.  

Merriam-Webster definition of authentic is: true to one's own personality, spirit, or character; is sincere and authentic with no pretensions!

Choose any great leaders that has changed the world and you will see – they all have passion, spirit and are true to the very essence of their character.  I was hit with this realization: When you are trying to be someone you are not – people can sense it.  And, while you might increase your IG followers, you will never be a great leader, never change the world and never find internal peace.  

So internet world here are the questions I am asking myself to reconnect with the spirit of my character:

1. What do you stand for?
2. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
3. What are your dreams?
4. What is holding you back?
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In 2017 I made a conscious decision to push beyond my comfort zone and live life on purpose!  What about you – do you live your life on purpose or have you lost yourself in the “busy-ness”?