Personality is Authorized

(In 1950’s radio advertising voice)

“Do you work in a rigid, bureaucratic office setting?”

“Do you feel like you need to ‘fit in the mold’ constantly with your peers and superiors to make an impact?”

“Do you feel like your sense of humor or sense of self are stifled at work?”

Then Scroll no more! Mr. Joe is here to tell you that your Personality is Authorized!

More than that, it’s encouraged.

I came up this this saying a handful of years ago after getting tired of watching my superiors be so-darn-stern all day at work. Yet, in a social setting, you could get a peek into their personalities – these folks were funny, entertaining people to be around – so what gives?  Do I have to be all-business in office and get side-eye when I crack a joke? Is there room for your authentic self to show up everywhere?

(Before you go there and ask “maybe your jokes aren’t funny, Joe?” - Nah, that’s not it, I’m [delusional] hilarious) 😊

A lot of this changed when our Commanding Officer/CEO gave a presentation to our officers and supervisors on our work and its impact to our Mission. During the presentation he was exploding with energy and a personality you don’t typically see from a senior officer. At one point he acted and quoted the bathroom scene from Jim Carrey’s “Liar, Liar”: “I’m kicking my own ass!” and promptly threw himself on the floor. 

This is when I knew for certain – personality is both authorized, and necessary. The audience was enthralled by the presentation, and they enjoyed the candid approach the boss took to acknowledge our day-to-day struggles. Ultimately, him bringing his true-self to the meeting garnered our complete attention – versus some bland run-of-the-mill “hoo rah” that some others do.  (you know the types, I promise)

Since then I started being completely myself and I’ve never looked back. If my boss has a problem with it, I expect them as a leader to tell me. (spoiler alert, nothing yet 😉)  

ACTION

I encourage you all to GET OUT THERE and flex yourself! 

Could be something small, a brighter or unique shade of lipstick you wear when you hang out with friends.

Boring gray suit? Pop in your favorite color – or a wacky bowtie! (#billnye)

Start the meeting with a joke – even (or especially) a horrible one.

Decorate your office YOUR WAY – I have stuffed animals on my desk - each has a Navy story – even the Dammit Doll. 😊

My bottom line is this: It’s exhausting being someone else, so why not be yourself?  Life’s too short to fake it.

Have a great day everyone, do something uniquely ‘you’ today!

Cheers,

Joe

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