, Tired of “Faking It”?

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Hi !

Last week, we tackled imposter syndrome. We looked at how that lurking self-doubt can actually help us reach new heights if we use it instead of shrink from it.

The response I got was decent. Some of you admitted you’d been hiding your jitters for years. Now that they’re out in the open? Feels like a weight lifted, right?

So, let’s take this one step further: Authenticity. Sure, everyone claims they “keep it real,” but do they really?

There’s a massive gulf between casually tossing out “Just be yourself!” and actually living and leading from that raw, unvarnished place. Scary? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.

What’s In It For You:

• Mindset Shift: We’ll bust the myth that “being real” undermines professionalism.

• 3 Radical Hacks: Left-field strategies to integrate authenticity into your leadership so powerfully, people sit up and take notice.

• Case Study: A well-known figure who built an empire on telling it exactly like it is.

Let’s Talk About Authenticity

Look, I get it: “authenticity” is that term plastered across a zillion motivational quotes.

But the real deal is messy, vulnerable, and often uncomfortable.

It means unmasking yourself, your flaws, your uncertainties, even your personal quirks, and trusting that this transparency won’t torpedo your credibility.

It usually does the opposite. Being genuine is like flipping on a signal flare.

People see you, really see you, and they tend to lean in, not run away.

That’s when synergy and collaboration skyrocket.

But you’ve gotta have the guts to show the real you first.

Hacks for the Bold

1. Own Your Weird
   Make a list of your quirks. The little habits or traits you usually hide. Start weaving them into your leadership style. Maybe you doodle wildly during meetings or use wacky analogies. Let it surface. People resonate with real humans, not boring robots.

2. Feedback ‘Unfilter’ Session
   Carve out a space where your team can give you unfiltered feedback. No sugarcoating, no polite fibs. Yes, it’s nerve-wracking. But when they see you can handle tough truths without flipping tables, you establish genuine trust. That kind of directness is gold.

3. “No-Show Boast”
   Next time you’re proud of something you’ve done, say it out loud (without the humblebrag spin). Just own it: “I’m actually really proud of this project.” Sounds bold, right? But honest self-celebration shows you’re human and breaks the ice for others to feel proud, too.

Case Study: Gary Vaynerchuk - The Candid Mogul

Love him or hate him, Gary V has built a personal brand on unfiltered truth-telling, complete with a dash of colorful language.

He didn’t start off polished; he just showed up as Gary, loud, passionate, flaws and all.

Instead of toning it down, he leaned all the way in, building a multi-million-dollar marketing empire and a massive, loyal following.

Key takeaway: When you double down on the real you, you attract the people who genuinely vibe with your style, and you weed out the rest. That’s not losing business; that’s creating a loyal tribe rather than an endless community of random people.

“Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown

One of my personal favourites.

If you want to read how vulnerability and authenticity go hand in hand, snag “Daring Greatly.”

Brené Brown unpacks how showing up as your raw, imperfect self can transform not just you, but entire teams and organisations.

Perfect if you’re ready to dismantle old shields and lead from a place of genuine strength.

Quick Note: Schedule Your Free 30-Minute Clarity Call

Feeling the itch to lead with more honesty, but not sure how to navigate the potential fallout?

I’ve helped leaders crack open that authenticity vault without unraveling. We’ll co-create a plan that blends honesty and self-awareness, ensuring your real self thrives.

Ready to drop the façade?

👉 Schedule your complimentary 30-minute clarity call here

Let's Reflect:

1. Where in your life are you still wearing a mask?

2. Does that mask keep you safe, or is it hurting your impact?

3. What would it look like to lead one meeting or project in full, unapologetic authenticity?

Fun Corner

The “Two Truths and a Tale” Game

• Each team member shares two weird facts about themselves and invents one outrageous lie.

• The group tries to guess which is the fib.

• Expect laughter, shock, and a deeper sense of “Wow, we’re all kinda quirky around here.”

It’s a sneaky way to highlight our unique stories, and drop the pretense that we’re “perfect” professionals.

Thank you to everyone who responded last week!

A Personal Reflection

I remember a phase where I tried to mimic the polished, monotone exec demeanor, thinking that was the “right” look.

It was excruciating.

My energy flagged, my sense of humor evaporated, and I felt like I was living someone else’s life.

Once I gave up that charade and let my real quirks shine (yes, I have a thing for using movie analogies in serious meetings), I instantly connected with clients on a more human level.

Go figure, authentic was the new black.

The Final Word

Authenticity doesn’t mean oversharing every private detail.

Instead, ditch the mask that blocks true connection.

The moment you let people see the real you, you empower them to bring their real selves to the table, too. And that’s where real magic happens.

Share Your Thoughts

Got a story about a time you dropped the façade and saw your relationships or results skyrocket?

Or maybe a weird moment that taught you the power of being real?

Hit reply. I want to hear the raw, unfiltered scoop.

How Else I Can Help

I also offer consulting services based on my senior leadership experience and am available for speaking engagements, including events, keynotes, podcasts, and course recordings.

For further details, contact me here or reply to this email.

Thanks for reading and see you next time!

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