A while back, I saw a video featuring author Seth Godin that shook me. He said, “Authenticity is for amateurs.” His point being that, professionally, people don’t need the “real you” all the time. For pros, consistency matters more than authenticity.
I’ve long believed in the power of authenticity. Some of the moments I’m most proud of, personally and professionally, have come because I was willing to show up as my authentic self. So, Seth’s take on consistency being more important than authenticity stuck with me. Because I think it’s actually true.
But here’s where I’ve landed, for what it’s worth: I think consistency is easier to sustain when the way you show up reflects who you actually are. I’ve also seen in my own life how much more powerful that type of consistency can be. Authenticity, to me, is showing up consistently in a way that is true to who you are.
You can be authentic without always being an open book. You can be authentic without wearing your heart on your sleeve, which is my default state for better or worse. You can choose what to share, when to share it, and what to keep to yourself. But you’re still consistently true to yourself.
Whether you’re an amateur or a pro, yes, consistency matters. But am I consistently being me?