Are You a Chameleon?
We all know what a chameleon is. Those lizards that can change their skin tone to match their environment. Often, they change their color to protect themselves from other animals that would prey upon them.
So…how about you? Are you a chameleon?
And what I mean by that is: Are you one person at home? Another person in front of the moms at school? A different person when meeting with your boss? An entirely different person when holding a team meeting?
People Pleaser?
Why?
Are you a people pleaser? Is it because you’re trying to be all things to all people? Do you think that’s what they want from you?
What if I told you that doing this – trying to be everything to everyone – is not good for you or those people in your life? Would you believe me?
It’s true.
Because what people really want is for you to show up as your authentic self.
And if they don’t want that – then they’re not the people for you.
Showing Up Authentically
Now, this is, of course, not as easy as it sounds – especially if you’ve spent years of your life trying to live up to everyone’s expectations of you.
So how do you do it? How do you show up authentically?
Well, I want you to ask yourself a few questions.
1. Are you Living Your Values?
Your values should be the driving factor behind everything you do. When you’re not living by your values – that’s when you find yourself not being authentic. And it can happen at home or at work.
2. Are you staying in the moment?
When you are constantly stuck in the past or worrying about the future, it makes it extremely difficult to be your true self. When we are present in the moment – whether it be a conversation with our boss or a deep discussion with our spouse – we can better express ourselves and make good contributions and decisions.
3. Do you have people who support YOU?
Do you have a group of people who know and support the real you? Not the social media version of yourself you may put out there? But the real you? If you don’t have those people in your life – you need to find them…NOW! They will be there for you through the highs and the lows – and we all need that.
4. Do you speak your mind?
Yes, it’s essential that you speak the truth when it comes to showing up authentically. It doesn’t mean being rude, but it does mean that you express yourself in a way that aligns with your values and opinions.
5. Do you know what motivates you?
We are all motivated by different things – dreams, desires, passions, goals – and they also play a part in your authenticity. Make sure you understand your motivation for what you do and what you say.
6. Are you self-aware?
We all have times when we need to take a step back and make sure we’re talking the talk and walking the walk. To do this, you need to be self-aware – of both your strengths and your weaknesses.
7. Have you faced your fears?
Often, when we’re not being authentic, it’s because we’re scared. Maybe of what people might think. How someone might react. Or what may happen. But living in fear is no way to live. Take the time to recognize your fears and make a plan to overcome them.
As we head into 2022, it’s a great time to take stock, reset, and make sure you’re bringing your authentic self into everything you do. This can only help make 2022 your best year yet!