I spend a lot of time thinking and writing about effective leadership. A big part of that message is centered around authenticity. Part of that authentic message needs to include our whole self, not just who we are in the workplace.
We all have other passions in life, and for much of my career I’ve been told to clearly separate my work life from my personal life.
Friends, if that isn’t the biggest line of BS, then I’m missing something.
How in the world can we preach authenticity, and not share (at least a part) of who we are away from work?
Can we preach transparency, candor, and openness and not share anything about who we are when we’re not on the clock? Work is but a small part of who I am. It does not define me as a person; rather, it tells you about my career path.
Over the years I’ve grown more comfortable sharing different parts of my life, particularly on the many social channels I use to help people get to know me better.
For example, I have a passion for heavy metal music. Despite the criticism (sometimes significant) I am not ashamed or embarrassed. For me, the energy of metal music can not be matched in intensity or skill.
I’m also passionate about fitness, and more specifically working with my personal trainer. Sharing that content is not about some sort of macho ego trip. It’s actually part of my self-talk machine to stay motivated, keep pushing myself, and maybe inspire someone else in their mid-fifties that they can train hard too.
Lastly, I’m deeply passionate about my faith. I’m a lifelong United Methodist, and despite the current challenges of the global denomination, my local church matches my values of total inclusion for all people, all colors, all sexual orientations, all faiths.
Do I share too much? Maybe.
Do I care? No. How can I be an effective leader if I hide so much of what matters to me?
What are your passions? I’d love to hear what completes you.
Thanks for being here.
Jay
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