Bringing Your Full Self to Work

For many in today’s workplace, the fine line between our professional and personal lives is increasingly blurred. Finding the right balance isn’t just about managing time; it’s about creating a harmonious integration that allows us to truly bring our authentic selves to work each day to find genuine connections and opportunities for collaboration. 

In truly diverse and welcoming work environments, our differences are not just tolerated but celebrated. This celebration of uniqueness creates a space where everyone feels they can contribute their distinct perspective. 

Letting the magic happen

Let’s think about what it means to bring our full selves to work. We can look at it from both the individual and organizational perspective. This concept means showing up authentically, with all our diverse experiences, perspectives and identities. 

When employees feel free to be themselves, the magic happens. Creativity flourishes, collaboration improves and overall job satisfaction increases. When employees feel they can’t be their authentic selves at work, job satisfaction decreases. Most people in the workforce would prefer to work in a place where they can be themselves, experience growth opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the overall mission. 

It would be tough to accomplish this goal, however, if you weren’t comfortable in your workplace, and if your values didn’t align well with the company’s. Imagine walking into an office where you feel completely at ease being yourself. This level of comfort stems from a culture of acceptance and psychological safety. 

Creating workplaces 

Some companies have found that encouraging employees to pursue their personal passions fosters this sort of comfort level. And, when your values align with your company’s mission, work has the opportunity to become more than just a job — it can become a purpose. 

Recognizing potential consequences underscores the critical importance of creating work environments where every employee feels valued, heard and empowered to bring their authentic self to work.

An employee’s enthusiasm drives them to go above and beyond, resulting in innovation. Remember that passion fuels excellence, and it’s great for fostering staff loyalty and retention, too. 

That being said, your life outside of work has to be prioritized. Effective work-life balance is possible, and it often comes down to everyday choices. It could be as simple as setting a “no email after 8 pm” guideline for yourself, or even blocking out time in your calendar for family dinner each night. These small actions can have a big impact on your overall well-being. Work does not have to be all that you are. 

Making an investment

The leadership at progressive companies understand that supporting employees’ whole lives leads to better business outcomes. Hybrid schedules, workplace flexibility, support for new parents, and investing in education and development — these are examples of ways a company can invest in their employees' lives. 

A top-down approach to authenticity can transform company culture, attracting top talent and further driving the company’s success while creating a workplace where both individuals and the organization can thrive. 

Stifled, unhappy employees operate at a fraction of their potential, and their best ideas and work product may never have the chance to surface. Wearing a “work mask” is emotionally exhausting, and can lead to stress, burnout and even more serious health issues.

Bringing our whole selves to work is essential for both personal fulfillment and organizational success. Start small by sharing a personal interest with a colleague or volunteering for a project that aligns with your values. These steps can help you feel more authentic without overstepping workplace norms. 

Let’s challenge ourselves, and our workplaces, to create and continually invest in environments where authenticity, comfort and passion can truly thrive.