#3 Embrace Openness

AUTHENTIC communication needs openness. But openness ≠ Doormat! Learning openness is part of being authentic.

It’s counter-intuitive, yet the very quirks and passions that we might try to hide from others for fear of being judged can actually work to significantly deepen our connections with others.

By being open with others, sharing past failures and admitting that we don’t have all the answers, we invite empathy and trust into our relationships.

What can make this even more powerful is to merge our openness with pursuing our interests, whether it’s joining a lunchtime reading group, learning archery, or taking a cooking class.

Each time we step out of our comfort zone to try something new and be open to sharing our experiences with others, we are actively enriching our lives and embracing the fun that comes from following our curiosity. The benefit from this is that each time we openly discuss what interests us, it becomes easier to lower our guard in other areas.

𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞.

You could, for example, share an “I’m still learning” moment, and seek some feedback during a team meeting. Or, you could choose to self-disclose even more, “I have to admit, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed by our current workload. Can we brainstorm how to lighten the load?”

If you’re feeling this way, chances are someone else is, too. So your openness makes you relatable and fosters a collaborative atmosphere.

Here are some quick benefits of being open and exploring new interests:

✅Reduces stress: Expressing concerns prevents negative emotional buildup.

✅Boosts well-being: Authentic interactions can lead to happiness and great sense of fulfilment.

✅Encourages reciprocity: Your openness could start a snowball effect, making others more willing to share.

✅Enhances communication: The more open team members are, the less chance of misunderstandings.

✅And a big one, being open and exploring new interests allows for personal growth toward the best version of YOU.

Embrace openness as a powerful tool to develop authenticity and to guide your professional and personal journey.


#Authenticity #Creativity #Leadership #CriticalThinking #Motivation #CommunicationSkills #Management #HR

Originally published: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dr-j-andrew-kuypers-9322b728_authenticity-creativity-leadership-activity-7353434903864045571-Gdkp?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAW9R3YBEDCCdRRKSczeniSrEi0oc-DfGUc