Let’s Be Real

Let’s be real, we all have weaknesses. My list is pretty long in the general sense: chocolate chip cookies, the cheeseburgers at Au Cheval in Chicago, and Nothing Bundt Cakes to name a few. But today we aren’t talking about my favorite foods, we’re talking about the willingness to show that we aren’t perfect people in all walks of life.

I believe there was a time when people truly believed it made more sense to show a front of knowing it all than to ever show any weakness. Flawless. Perfect. Completely unblemished. This simply isn’t sustainable!

Today’s best leaders, friends, partners, and colleagues aren’t perfect—they’re real. So, let’s get into it.

People Don’t Follow Perfection, They Follow Connection

Simply put, authenticity builds trust. I’m a relationship person, possibly to a fault, but when I’m in, I’m in. When you build relationships, you don’t trust people because they’re flawless; you trust them because of their actions and because of their honesty. When people show up for us, and they have empathy, and take accountability, and share experiences we feel a connection.

The Journey, Not Just the Highlight

Social media is a great resource, but we don’t always have the opportunity to see the progression of what goes into someone’s greatness. However, there are some people who do a fantastic job of showing the process and not just the highlight reel of what it takes to be great in your role. I mean any role…mentor, teammate, entrepreneur, coach, parent, partner, friend, neighbor, volunteer, community member, and the list goes on. People respect others who invite others to help them grow. In a world that’s obsessed with appearance, one of the most powerful things you can offer is your realness.

The Fine Line

I need to add that by no means am I urging you to divulge your entire life in all settings. With everything, there are certain levels of comfort and different boundaries that serve their purpose. Authenticity isn’t about oversharing, but it is about being genuine enough to create an appropriate level of connection with others. Quite possibly, being more open is something that’s new to you. Vanessa Van Edwards, an amazing author and speaker, offers these two questions as great conversation starters:

What’s the most exciting thing in your life right now?

What’s your biggest goal right now?

These questions are insightful, welcoming, and great conversation starters.

Continue to be the real you, and as always, I’m wishing you the best.