At work, can you be authentic or do you always have to fake it? Defining authenticity or being “real” can be an entire philosophical dissertation. A Buddhist may even say there is no true self. So to avoid obfuscation, I will use the following psychological definition found in research to define authenticity: authenticity is being aware of desires, objectively assessing strengths and weaknesses, engaging in behavior consistent with values and goals and being interpersonally honest. Studies indicate that greater authenticity can enhance self-esteem and overall wellbeing (Goldman & Kernis, 2002). Many people come to therapy because they want to live more authentically and discover their genuine feelings and motivations. However, what happens when one is at a job where being authentic can cause problems? Telling your boss off, or your client how you really feel about them could mean filing for unemployment. Do you fake it? The following are tips on how to cope when being authentic at work can be problematic.
Tips for Being Authentic at Work
- Reframing behavior at work as authentic and adaptive: Research illustrates that faking it at work may be particularly difficult for individuals who view this behavior as a betrayal to their identity (Pugh, Groth,& Hennin-Thurau, 2010). To alleviate this conflict, reframing behavior, such as suppressing anger towards a customer, as adaptive for business relations rather than inauthentic may decrease one’s frustration.
- Focusing on the big picture of authenticity: Although, at work, moments of inauthenticity may occur, work roles don’t have to define who you are. Looking to other roles for self-definition (eg.: parent, child, friend, husband, etc.) where your authenticity is greater may be helpful.
- Taking a new perspective to create authentic interactions: Even when you strongly disagree with your boss or a client, attempt to understand their perspective. If you can understand the perspective of someone else it can help you suppress negative feelings. For example, understanding the perspective of any angry or rude client may help you remain calm and respond tactfully rather than emotionally.
- Using authenticity as an excuse: When you are given a new task at work that goes against your natural inclinations or strengths this can cause anxiety. Labeling the task as something that’s “not me” can be a defense against failure. Doing something that initially feels inauthentic can actually elicit growth and get you out of your comfort zone. You may discover, in time, that the task you initially labeled as not you is actually an authentic part of yourself that you never explored.
- Consider work inauthenticity temporary: Keeping in mind that your current job may be a stepping stone for something greater. Faking it at work may lead you a more engaging job in which you feel more connected.
References
Goldman, M, B., & Kernis, M (2002). The role of authenticity in the healthy psychological functioning and subjective well-being. Annals of American Psychotherapy, vol 5
Pugh, S.D., Groth, M., Hennin-Thurau, T (2010). Willing and able to fake emotions the link between emotional dissonance and employee well-being. Journal of Applied Psychology pg 1-12. doi: 10.1037/a0021395