Finding Purpose Through Authenticity
Authenticity is a powerful concept, meaning:
- To be real and transparent
- To operate from a place of conviction, principle and discipline
- To relate to others in a way that’s genuine, human and connected
To be truly fulfilled, we must strive to live and lead this way. But what happens when we turn the spotlight on ourselves? What would we encounter when examining our work, personal fulfillment and confidence? If they don’t align, are we prepared to take concrete steps based on what we find? This is what Spenser Lewis, Engagement Manager at Promote On Purpose, did that turned her life in a new direction.
A Personal Transformation
Growing up, Spenser didn’t think she had a lot to say or give. Many of her thoughts went unexpressed because she doubted whether she had anything of value to add to any situation or discussion. She constantly worried about what other people would think or say.
With time and experience, however, Spenser learned to release her personal inhibitions to experience the freedom of being herself no matter what. Then an even greater transformation occurred when she took a deep look at her life and decided something had to change.
“I needed something to push me to higher heights,” she said. “I was complacent and comfortable. I was going through the motions and I needed a clear direction for my life. I needed to be authentic. Who was I really? How could I find my purpose and a path that’s mine to follow?”
This quest lead her to Dallas, where she started a career at Share On Purpose.
“I believe I am more confident today because I took that huge step. Being authentic gives you a boost of confidence, you take strides and risks you never thought you could take, all because you dared to be the real you. You took the time to find yourself and love who you truly are.”
Finding oneself takes personal reflection and introspection, however, authenticity in dealing with others is just as critical. As Spenser says, “You need authentic people around you. The more open and real everyone is, the more success a team can experience. I have had managers in the past who weren’t effective, not because they didn’t know how to do their jobs but because they weren’t relatable. I was looking for realness and openness and that was lacking.”
On Authentic Leadership
As a growing leader, Spenser recognizes the role authenticity plays in her career growth.
“Being authentic as a leader is what’s going to help me improve my teams’ work experience, get results and succeed. I want to be known as a genuine leader, who not only works to get results but whom my team is excited to work with. You earn trust from your team when you’re authentic. And that starts with knowing yourself, your style of communication and your unique way of approaching your work.”
Spenser hopes to continue to inspire her current and future team members by encouraging openness and communication. “There’s always room for another perspective. Another type of thought process. As they say, ‘Two heads are better than one.’ And because we make decisions and approach issues based on our personal experiences, there’s a richness to working on a team that encourages communication on every level.”
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No thy self and the world will be your footstool To thy sef be true