Authentic individuals are positive people with truthful self-concepts who promote openness in their relationships.  We gravitate towards them because those that are true to themselves are likely to hold and live the same ethos in every aspect of their life, and the practice of trying to be more authentic often heads up a domino effect, making it an extremely powerful personal tool.

“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” C. G. Jung

Knowing yourself, and the ability to BE yourself (lifting the veil on who you feel you ought to be, as leader or otherwise) takes confidence, tenacity and bravery — we are drawn to these appealing characteristics. Below are seven habits of truly genuine people. Take a look and steal a minute to reflect:

1. They know their mind.  Genuine people take time to work out their stance on the matter at hand and are confident in communicating it effectively, without expectation on what should follow.

2. They focus on internal expectations. Genuine people dedicate time, as continual practice, to getting to know themselves and discovering their personal mission, vision and values against the expectations and standards of family, community and the culture they live in. This enables them to identify and clarify their direction and purpose.

3. They forge their own paths. Having a clear idea on what they stand for allows genuine people to discover their own unique way of actively pursuing their purpose.

4. They are not threatened by failure. Genuine people recognise the importance of failure as an integral part of their journey, a source of learning, and an enriching experience from which they can grow.

5. They can admit their faults.  Genuine people, honest and true to themselves, are able to pay attention to their downfalls and strengths alike, and for their actions as a result.

6. They don’t judge. Being able to own their own faults and embracing individuality means genuine people are more accepting of the people around them, leading to direct and honest relationships.

7. They have solid self-esteem. Balance comes into play again here. Having stable self-esteem, (narcissists, for example, have high but brittle self-esteem), is the root of all six points listed above. It provides a buffer against feedback and criticism, (external and internal), and protects overall self-worth and the passion required to lead authentically.

It can often take effort, courage and self-confidence to find out who you are and be that person, but who are you supposed to be if not yourself? An easy first step to lifting the veil and reaching self-actualisation is the Discovery Personal Profile.

“Receiving my profile helped me evolve my position and understand how integrated every role is to the whole organisation.” Jill Niewoudt, HR Director, Naim Audio