Do you ever find it challenging to be authentically you?

Throughout my growth as a leader, I’ve noticed that negative thoughts tend to creep in. These thoughts are based on circumstances in the past, but they get in the way of my being productive in the present.

I’ve found that the best way to get past these thoughts is to have a conversation - to get out of my head and talk through them with someone who can provide a new perspective.

One of my favorite spaces to have that conversation is the Conspiring Women Peer Coaching Co-Op, run by Jen Walper Roberts. In this Co-Op, over 200 women from around the world have connected to help each other grow in leadership and purpose.

I recently had the chance to interview Jen, and our conversation brought out a lot of great insights. 

Something that we both find to be profound is having an environment in which women can connect and support each other. Through the Co-Op, these connections happen in a really open, authentic way.

Through these connections, conversations happen that break down barriers and help move us beyond the stereotypes and negative thoughts.

Doing so can help you better focus on who you are and what your mission is.

Another topic that came up is equally as important: how to be authentically you.

This is something that many of us strive for, but there’s not really a “blueprint” for doing so. Learning to be your authentic self isn’t always a comfortable process. There are ways to ease into it, though.

• Be willing to try different things. Don’t be as concerned about whether you succeed at them; just try them. Discover what really resonates with you.
• Take some time to think through your past experiences. When did you feel most authentically yourself? What were you doing? What words would you associate with those experiences? What are you able to create, just by being yourself?
• Talk about it in the present terms. Too often, we plan for some future event or feeling of fulfillment. You don’t have to wait for it to happen!

As you grow in your ability to be authentic, I encourage you to intentionally surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you. Curate experiences and conversations with people who challenge you to grow.

If you would like to hear my entire interview with Jen, you can find it here. 

Please share this post with someone who needs support becoming their authentic self.