It’s funny how specific phrases stick with us throughout our lives. “Just be yourself” is one of those phrases, isn’t it? It’s like it’s drilled into us from the moment we can comprehend language. But you know what? As much as we hear it, living it out can be a different story.
Let me take you on a journey through this puzzle of Learning vs. Authenticity, which I often encounter in my work with aspiring, Engaging Executives.
Picture this: I’m coaching a client, introducing them to new behaviours and techniques aimed at propelling them forward in their careers. And you know what often happens? They pause, furrow their brows, and say something like, “I’m not sure about this. It just doesn’t feel authentic.”
Learning vs. Authenticity
Now, let me tell you something important: there’s a big difference between learning something new and pretending to be someone you’re not. It’s like teaching a baby to walk.
Seriously, think about it. When a parent holds their little one’s hands and encourages those first wobbly steps, it’s not a natural or comfortable experience for the baby, is it? They’ll often look around with confusion, maybe shed a few tears, and plop right back down on their diapered bottoms.
But do you think the parent gives up and says, “Well, this obviously doesn’t feel right for the baby? Let’s just let them be their authentic selves and crawl forever”? Of course not! They keep at it because they know those awkward, uncertain steps are the essence of learning and growth.
The Thing About Discomfort
And that’s the thing, isn’t it? Just because something feels strange or unfamiliar initially doesn’t mean it’s not right for you. It’s all part of the journey toward becoming a better, more capable version of yourself. It’s like adding layers to your personality, enriching your authentic self with new skills and experiences.
So, here’s the kicker: we all must learn to embrace the discomfort of growth. It can be challenging, I’ll give you that. But trust me when I say that the rewards are worth it. Every stumble, every setback, every moment of uncertainty—it’s all part of the process. It moulds us into the individuals we’re meant to be.
Authentic Tasks vs Problem Based Learning
Now, let’s dive deeper into this whole learning vs. authenticity debate, shall we? Because there’s more to it than meets the eye. Think about the skills you’re trying to acquire. It could be public speaking, leadership, or even something seemingly simple as active listening. Whatever it is, a certain amount of discomfort comes with stepping outside your comfort zone and trying something new. And you know what? That discomfort is okay. It’s normal. It’s a sign that you’re pushing yourself, challenging yourself to grow and evolve.
Authenticity Isn’t About Staying the Same.
But here’s the thing about Learning vs. Authenticity: authenticity isn’t about staying stagnant, clinging to who you are in this moment and refusing to change. Authenticity is about being true to yourself in every stage of your journey, embracing your strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures, and using them to propel yourself forward. And sometimes, that means stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new, even if it initially feels awkward.
So, my friend, the next time you find yourself hesitating to try something new because it doesn’t feel “authentic,” remember this: authenticity isn’t about staying the same. It’s about embracing change, growth, and evolution. It’s about becoming the best version of yourself, one awkward step at a time.
Now, I want to leave you with a challenge. Think about something you’ve wanted to learn or try but have been too afraid to pursue. It could be a new hobby, a new skill, or even a new career path. Whatever it is, I want you to take that first step. Embrace the discomfort, the uncertainty, the fear of the unknown. Because I promise you, on the other side of that discomfort is growth, opportunity, and a more genuine, more authentic version of yourself.
And hey, if you are ever working on a skill but feel it is not picking up, you know where to find help. We detailed the learning process for new skills, so check it out here. Up to build up a skill? How about the skill of empathy? Check out Energy Matching with this blog.
Do you know the 3 Zones in learning?
Perhaps you are working on a skill but you feel it is not picking up. We detailed the process when you learn any new skill, read here. Up to build up a skill? How about skill of empathy? Check out Energy matching with this blog. For more tips, visit the Engaging Executive Vlog.