The Authentic Self is the core of your being. It is often referred to as the true self, real self or essential self as distinguished from the self you usually present to the world. It is the self you were born to become, the self you would be if your character were not distorted by conditioning and projections from external authorities. It shines in your values, your sense of purpose and your drive to express yourself authentically throughout your life.

The Authentic Self is the ’seed’ that contains your potential. It is open and uniquely you.

The ‘conditioned self’ is made up of many different conditions that influenced your development such as parents, teachers, cultural and society expectations, much of what was learned in your early childhood and growing up.

Regularly connecting with the Authentic Self allows you to become aware of an unfolding purpose for your life and empowers you to make choices that will further evolve that purpose. You will be less distracted or blown off course by others unreasonable expectations or your own insecurities. Living with purpose and knowing and acting in accordance with your Authentic Self gives everything you do an added measure of stability, credibility and authority. When connected with the Authentic Self you communicate a powerful sense of inner authority.

There are several steps to bringing more of your Authentic Self to work:

1. Recognise the difference between your Authentic Self and your conditioned self
2. Stay connected to your Authentic Self as much as possible
3. Identify your unique set of values that support your Authentic Self
4. Identify ways to express your authenticity at work or find your purpose vocation