April 2024
In Boston, spring is here and the trees are budding, green is sprouting and my cat just uncovered a new bird's nest in the eaves. There is an energy in the air, as we await the coming burst of life.
How is your energy? Do you get energized thinking about where you are in life? Are you leading a life that feels full and authentic to you? In this issue I am talking about authenticity because nothing zaps your energy like trying to be something you're not. Cathryn Noyes
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Leading with Authenticity Every organization has its own culture and its own definition of what "good leadership" looks like. What if it doesn't align with your own leadership style? How can you lead effectively, but in a way that feels authentic? For example, the workplace tends to favor the extrovert. Does that mean that if you are an introvert you have to force yourself to be gregarious and outgoing? No. Research has shown that introverts tend to be better listeners, they are good communicators, creative problem-solvers, deep thinkers, good strategists and calmer in stressful situations. By leaning into their strengths, introverts can be excellent authentic leaders in a world where good leadership is often epitomized by the outgoing extrovert.
Authentic leadership starts with self-awareness. Reflect on your core values - what truly matters to you? Aligning your leadership decisions and actions with these values fosters consistency and transparency. When you lead with a clear purpose that resonates with your values, your team is more likely to trust and connect with your vision.
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A great podcast: How to Discover Your Authentic Self
Bevy Smith is an author, an actor, a TED speaker, and a fashion and pop culture expert. Treat yourself to this wonderful podcast where she shares her journey of creating a successful life on her own terms. Bevy was living the glamorous life of a fashion advertising executive, until one day realized that she didn't like the person she was or the life she was living. She is funny and engaging and has lots of insights to offer on how you can build an authentic life that fulfills and uplifts you. Her messages: Don't settle. There is power in going your own way. Don't be afraid. |
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Authenticity is Not the Same Thing As Your Comfort Zone Many of us struggle with feeling authentic at work, and we think that means that we should only act in ways that feel comfortable and natural to us because that is the "real me". You may think "That's not me. I just don't give presentations" or "I just don't speak up in meetings", but thinking this way can keep you from growing your skills, trying new things or adapting to new situations. Any time you try to learn a new skill or practice a new behavior, it is going to feel uncomfortable until you master it. Trying a new behavior or action is not being inauthentic, it is stretching yourself. |
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““Authenticity is also about the courage and the vulnerability to say, "Yeah, I'll try it. I feel pretty uncomfortable and I feel a little vulnerable, but I'll try it!"” —Brene Brown |
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The Confident Leader Workshop Series
This summer I will be offering a series of complimentary workshops on how to be a more authentic and confident professional. We'll cover how to build your inner confidence through understanding your strengths, identifying the beliefs and habits that hold you back, how your work environment and gender can affect your confidence, overcoming imposter syndrome, and other ways to bolster your confidence. We'll also talk about how to project greater confidence through body language and communication.
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Be the confident leader you aspire to be. | | |
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I work with professionals like you who are looking achieve greater success at work and in their personal lives. A coach helps you clarify what you want for yourself and supports you as you make the changes you need to make to achieve your goals. Book a call with Cathryn to Learn More About How I Can Work With You
ACCELERATE SUCCESS. CULTIVATE JOY.
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Cathryn Noyes | Certified Leadership Coach | Certified Professional Coach | ICF Certified ACC Coach |
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