A Kick from A Larimer Mule

I've been traveling with my family this past week. It was a chance to recharge and reflect as we hiked mountain trails. It was a chance to mark how life has changed over the years as I visited with friends I made in my first days in the club. And I got a much needed kick from a friend over a Larimer Mule.

The kick came in the form of one seemingly simple question: "has the authentic you been showing up?" Well, of course, right? Maybe. Sometimes?

We were talking, at the time, about another blog I've started writing to chronicle the journey to my first marathon. But the question was bigger than that.

We've all been trained to "put our best foot forward", "never let them see you sweat" and "bring your A game", right? It's good advice (thanks, Mom). But there's something powerful in showing up authentically, being vulnerable and asking for support where you need it.

We all have weaknesses, shortcomings, things we're working on and things we fear we'll be judged for. Stop for a minute and think - what are some of these you personally face? What do you do to protect yourself in these areas? What can you do to be authentic, but push yourself beyond your comfort zone?

I'll admit, as much as I try to be genuine, authentic and present in everything I do, I don't always show up that way. I occasionally back away from an opportunity that would be a giant shove out of my comfort zone. I worry that not having answers or asking for help will be used against me down the road or seen as incompetent.

So, what do I do? I build relationships and leverage the talent around me. I confide in my "team" about where I am weak and where I see their strengths coming into play. I listen. I learn. I try and I adjust. Am I perfect? Heck no. Am I working my tail off to put myself out there, be authentic and work to be the best "me" I can be? Heck yes.
Active 20-30 will be rolling out the Leadership Lab in the coming weeks and months for members and emerging leaders. One of the focus areas will be around showing up authentically, allowing yourself to be vulnerable and combatting your immunity to change.

In the meantime, please share how what you do to help ensure the authentic you is showing up to conversations and relationships. If you are willing to be so bold, please share in the comments (you can do so anonymously, though I welcome you to be all-in).