Unlocking Authenticity: The Essential Role of Trust

Hello and welcome to eps 3 of ‘The Art of Connection’ Newsletter!

Last week we discussed the creation of an image to mitigate perceived risks, like adopting a 'professional' facade to mask feelings of inadequacy.

The key point was to contemplate an image you might be projecting that is getting in the way of your authenticity in your workplace and relationships with others.

Authenticity builds trust, and vice versa. Trust is what allows humans to work together beautifully and effectively. This is why outstanding cultures surpass average ones: the factors that establish a great culture initially, like trust and authenticity, tend to compound and reinforce each other, leading to more trust and greater authenticity over time.

So how do we cultivate more authenticity at work? It starts with trust.

There are three key areas to consider when it comes to assessing and building trust.

Self-trust: Are you confident in your abilities and decision-making?

Trust in your organisation: Do you feel your work environment supports your authenticity? ie, do you feel safe to be yourself within your work environment?

Trust in relationships: How well do you trust your colleagues and build meaningful connections?

Self-trust is crucial for authenticity. Psychologist Doris Brothers defines self-trust as the ability to cope with the world and oneself. According to a paper published by Trudy Govier titled ‘Self-Trust, Autonomy and Self-Esteem’, which references Brothers’ work, self-trust requires “a sense of one’s competence, especially regarding control, judgement, and adaptability”.

Brothers' research, focusing on the impact of traumatic experiences on trust, identifies self-trust indicators. Individuals with self-trust likely agree with statements like:

• I handle life’s disappointments well.

• I accept my shortcomings.

• I believe in the development of my talents.

• I make sound decisions on important matters.

• I trust my ability to manage difficult situations.

Conversely, signs of lacking self-trust include agreeing with statements such as:

• I fear becoming overwhelmed by unexplainable panic.

• I'm easily influenced by others' opinions.

• I tend to let myself be bullied.

• I worry about rejection when meeting new people.

• I set unrealistic expectations for myself.

🤔 Can this tell you anything about your sense of self-trust?

You might wonder how self-trust relates to building authentic relationships.

The connection is fundamental. As the saying goes, 'How you do one thing is how you do everything.'

Govier, in the paper mentioned above, defines trust as fundamentally an attitude shaped by beliefs and feelings, which sets the foundation for expectations and behaviours. Our ability to trust ourselves is also reflected in how we interpret others’ actions and intentions. Therefore, the foundation for authentic relationships and genuine authenticity is developing self-trust.

I’ll keep building on this next week, and explore how your work environment can impact your level of trust and authenticity.

Before we conclude this eps of ‘The Art of Connection’ newsletter, last week I promised to share tips for increasing authenticity in your workplace. I hope the following process will help you to identify opportunities to replace image management with a sense of self-trust and authenticity.

1. Reflect on a moment when you felt like an imposter, compelled to maintain a certain image. Maybe it was before an event or meeting. What is this image that you felt you needed to uphold? Be specific.

2. Consider the reasons behind this feeling. Was there something that you were afraid of? Maybe if they realised what a goofball you can be they wouldn’t take you seriously.

3. Now think back to when you were in your element, performing effortlessly without self-consciousness. During this peak performance were you preoccupied with your image, or did you transcend these concerns?

4. Analysing these contrasting experiences can reveal the gap between the persona you feel compelled to present and your authentic self. Assess whether maintaining this image is beneficial or restrictive. This introspection is valuable in various situations, especially if you are feeling anxious about conforming to a specific role.

Building self-trust teaches us that projecting an image isn’t necessary. We can handle new challenges as they come, and it’s alright if things don’t always go perfectly. These experiences are opportunities for growth and learning for the future.

Thanks for being on this journey!

Natalie Shaw
CEO @ OneUpOneDown