This phrase was inscribed many moons ago in the Inner Chamber of Luxor Temple, Upper Egypt. Today it’s often used to stress how knowing who you are is vital as a starting point for improving performance in business.
In ‘True North’ Harvard Business School Professor Bill George says ‘being genuine, real and true to how you are’ is the essence of a great leader.
It’s about being authentic. How authentic are you?
As we’ve seen this week with a well-loved UK TV presenter it takes courage to be yourself. It has taken me years to finally realise that it was OK to be me, I am who I am. As a high functioning business professional, I often hid what I really thought ... wanting to be part of the crowd or tribe instead of rocking the boat with a different idea or point of view. Businesses and teams need people who see the world a bit differently, we need diversity, we need different skills, knowledge, and perspective to improve our performance.
As a side note being something you’re not is also a massive waste of energy.
The definition of Authentic is ‘of undisputed origin and not a copy; genuine.’
Be unique, be you, be incredible. Remember the world is going to be a better place because you are in it.
You can find out more about authentic leadership in this article.