Work vs. Home Identity
Our work identity and our personal identity are two distinct entities that coexist within us. Our work identity is the persona we present to our colleagues and superiors, while our personal identity is the person we truly are outside of the office. It is important to understand that these identities can be different, and that authenticity can look different in each context.
At work, we are often expected to conform to certain norms and expectations, and to present ourselves in a certain way. We may have to suppress certain aspects of our personal identity in order to be successful in our careers. For example, we may have to adopt a more formal communication style at work, even if we are more comfortable using colloquial language at home.
However, it is important to remember that authenticity is not about conforming to societal norms or expectations. Rather, it is about being true to ourselves and being honest about who we are. This means that we can be authentic at work, even if we are not able to fully express our personal identity.
Being authentic at work can involve finding ways to express our unique strengths and talents, while still adhering to the expectations of our workplace. This might involve finding a mentor or role model who can help us navigate the corporate culture, or seeking out opportunities to showcase our skills and talents.
On the other hand, being authentic at home means allowing ourselves to fully express our personal identity, without the constraints of work expectations. This may involve spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies and interests, and engaging in self-care practices that allow us to recharge and rejuvenate.
Understanding the difference between our work identity and personal identity is crucial for achieving authenticity in both contexts. Authenticity at work may involve finding ways to express ourselves within the constraints of our workplace, while authenticity at home means allowing ourselves to fully express who we are without any constraints. It's essential to find the balance between both the work and personal identity to live a fulfilling life.
