Advocating for Authenticity

“Authenticity” has turned into a buzzword in our work with students and in the workplace. It is a concept linked to the profound systemic barriers and challenges faced by members of marginalized communities who often feel they need to code-switch at work, given implicit (or explicit) biases and long-standing workplace norms and cultures that pressure us to change any part of ourselves that doesn’t quite fit.

While we often hear the mantra to “bring your full self to work,” many struggle to grasp the true essence of authenticity and how to cultivate it in themselves and others. As we navigate the complexities of our identities, careers and relationships, reflecting on how we define and express our authentic selves becomes imperative and serves as a way to lead by example with our students. In this article, I invite you to explore the transformative power of authenticity, to consider how continuously learning about and embracing your true self can lead to personal and professional growth, and to reflect on how advocating for authenticity in our interactions with our students can aid their growth in turn.

Importance of Authenticity

The stress of pretending to be someone we’re not or working in environments that don’t align with our identities or our values can be overwhelming, leading to burnout and dissatisfaction. By pursuing authentic goals, we lay the groundwork for fulfilling and sustainable career paths.

However, many challenges impede our ability to be authentic. Graduate students often feel pressure to conform to academic or industry expectations, stifling their true interests. Imposter syndrome can exacerbate this issue, causing individuals to hide their aspirations and capabilities out of fear of not belonging. Additionally, rigid career paths in specific fields may make it challenging to explore alternative roles or routes that might feel more authentic to us—a particular challenge in academia.

My Road to Authenticity

I recognize that it’s not easy for certain groups to be fully authentic due to societal norms and workplace cultures that often stifle this authenticity, regardless of the lip service paid to championing diversity and inclusion. It goes without saying that there are countless challenges posed by systemic -isms and phobias, such as racism, sexism and homophobia.

In my experience, I have grappled with being authentic in the face of others’ biases against certain identities I hold—particularly as a very critical, blunt, confident, extroverted member of the LGBTQIA+ community. For those of us who face biases, being our true selves can feel like a monumental challenge, even a risk. This personal journey has shaped my understanding of authenticity and fueled my commitment to fostering environments where others can also embrace their authentic selves.

The Importance of Reflection

Reflection is a powerful tool for recognizing strengths and weaknesses. It empowers us to acknowledge our feelings and experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of our values and aspirations. By focusing on our journey rather than solely on outcomes, we can cultivate an iterative and growth mindset that embraces both successes and (perceived) setbacks. (I include “perceived” here because I believe there are no true setbacks, just lessons to help us learn more about ourselves and, in turn, guide us in a new, more authentic direction.)

As we navigate the complexities of our careers, reflection encourages us to pause and assess how we show up in various environments. This process can reveal how external factors, such as workplace culture or societal expectations, influence our behaviors and choices. By engaging in reflective practices, we can identify areas where we may compromise our authenticity and explore strategies to reclaim our true selves.

We can encourage students to adopt reflective practices. By emphasizing reflection as a fundamental practice, we can help students create a more profound connection between their identities and their career aspirations, leading to greater fulfillment and success.

I encourage students to engage in self-reflection, asking themselves essential questions about authenticity.

• How are you authentic with yourself? Are you in tune with your values, beliefs and desires? Do you allow yourself to feel and acknowledge your genuine emotions? If not, why?
• How are you authentic with others? Do you communicate openly and honestly with those around you? Are you willing to share your vulnerabilities and celebrate others’ differences? If not, why?
• How are you authentic as a leader? Do you lead with transparency and integrity? Are you creating environments where others feel safe to express their authentic selves? If not, why?
• How are you authentic as a scientist? Are you committed to ethical practices in your research? Do you share your findings and perspectives honestly, even when they may be unpopular? If not, why?
• How are you authentic as a friend? Do you support your friends in their authentic journeys? Are you willing to have difficult conversations that promote deeper connections? If not, why?
• How are you authentic as a colleague? Do you foster a culture of openness and respect in your professional relationships? Are you able to collaborate effectively while staying true to yourself? If not, why?
• How are you authentic as a professional? Are you pursuing a career that resonates with your values and passions? Do you feel empowered to advocate for yourself and others in professional settings? If not, why?

To effectively support our students, we must help them acknowledge and normalize every aspect of their identities—including the challenging parts. This acknowledgment is crucial in building perseverance, resilience and adaptability. When students embrace their whole selves, they grow as people and, in turn, become more authentic professionals.

Authenticity Is a Choice

Embracing authenticity is not merely a lofty ideal; it is a powerful choice that can redefine our experiences in academia and beyond. As you reflect on your journey, I encourage you to take actionable steps toward fostering your authenticity and supporting those around you to do the same. Begin by engaging in self-reflection with the questions outlined earlier, and consider journaling your thoughts to clarify your values and aspirations. Additionally, advocate for environments that prioritize openness, respect and vulnerability. By championing authenticity within yourself and your community, you can cultivate resilience, confidence and a sense of purpose that enhances your career and inspires those around you and the students you work with.