Bring Your Whole Self to Work: How Vulnerability Unlocks Creativity, Connection, and Performance

In his book "Be Your True Self at Work," Mike Robbins argues that we can work better, lead better, and be more engaged and fulfilled if we show up fully and authentically. He outlines five principles to approach our work in this spirit of openness and inclusivity, and to help the people we work with feel safe enough to do the same.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2021
Publisher: Hay House UK Ltd

In today's ever-evolving work landscape, the boundaries between our professional and personal lives have become increasingly blurred. Whatever we experience outside of our workplace, whether it's stress, pain, or joy, inevitably finds its way into our work lives. We may feel the pressure to present a façade of having everything under control, but as Mike Robbins reveals, we can unlock our full potential and achieve greater success, abundance, and satisfaction by embracing our true selves at work.

Mike, a highly sought-after motivational speaker and business consultant, has dedicated over two decades to researching, writing, and speaking about the essential human experiences and high performance in the workplace. Through his extensive observations and studies, Mike has come to believe that for us to thrive professionally, we must be willing to bring our whole selves to the tasks we undertake.

Bringing our whole selves to work entails acknowledging our vulnerability, imperfections, and the fact that we're all doing our best. It means having the courage to take risks, speak up, show compassion, seek help, connect authentically with others, and allow ourselves to be truly seen. By embracing this spirit of openness and inclusivity, we can create a safe environment where others feel comfortable doing the same, fostering collaboration and success within our teams and organizations.

In this essay, I will explore five principles that can guide us in approaching our work with openness and inclusivity. These principles are based on Mike's extensive research and experience and can help us create a more fulfilling and productive work environment.

Principle 1: Embrace Vulnerability

Vulnerability is the willingness to be open and honest about our fears, weaknesses, and uncertainties. It's the recognition that we don't have all the answers and that we're all on a journey of learning and growth. By embracing our vulnerability, we create a space for others to do the same, fostering a sense of trust and authenticity.

In the workplace, embracing vulnerability can lead to greater innovation, creativity, and collaboration. When we're willing to share our ideas and concerns, we create an environment where others feel comfortable doing the same. This can lead to the generation of new ideas and solutions that would not have been possible otherwise.

Principle 2: Speak Up

Speaking up is the courage to express our opinions, ideas, and concerns in a respectful and constructive manner. It's the ability to stand up for what we believe in and to advocate for change when necessary. By speaking up, we create a space for others to do the same, fostering a culture of openness and transparency.

In the workplace, speaking up can lead to greater accountability, responsibility, and success. When we're willing to share our insights and expertise, we contribute to the growth and development of our teams and organizations. It can also help us identify and address issues before they become more significant problems.

Principle 3: Show Compassion

Showing
Compassion is the ability to understand and relate to the experiences of others, regardless of their differences or circumstances. It's the willingness to be empathetic and to offer support and encouragement when needed. By showing compassion, we create a space for others to do the same, fostering a sense of community and connection.

In the workplace, showing compassion can lead to greater employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention. When we're compassionate and supportive of our colleagues, they're more likely to feel valued and appreciated, which can lead to increased motivation and productivity. It can also help us build stronger relationships and create a more positive work environment.

Principle 4: Seek Help

Seeking help is the courage to ask for assistance when we need it. It's the recognition that we're not alone and that there are resources and support available to us. By seeking help, we create a space for others to do the same, fostering a culture of collaboration and support.

In the workplace, seeking help can lead to greater problem-solving, innovation, and success. When we're willing to ask for help and collaborate with others, we can leverage our collective expertise and resources to achieve our goals. It can also help us build stronger relationships and create a more supportive work environment.

Principle 5: Connect Authentically

Connecting authentically is the ability to establish genuine and meaningful relationships with others. It's the willingness to be present, listen actively, and show empathy and understanding. By connecting authentically, we create a space for others to do the same, fostering a sense of belonging and community.

In the workplace, connecting authentically can lead to greater employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention. When we're authentic and genuine in our interactions with others, they're more likely to feel valued and appreciated, which can lead to increased motivation and productivity. It can also help us build stronger relationships and create a more positive work environment.

In conclusion, by embracing our true selves at work, we can unlock our full potential and achieve greater success, abundance, and satisfaction. By bringing our whole selves to work, we create a space for others to do the same, fostering a culture of openness, inclusivity, and collaboration. By embracing vulnerability, speaking up, showing compassion, seeking help, and connecting authentically, we can create a more fulfilling and productive work environment that benefits both ourselves and our teams and organizations. As Mike Robbins emphasizes, "When we show up fully and authentically, we can work better, lead better, and be more engaged and fulfilled." Let us embrace this principle and strive to create a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported.

Weight: 244g
Dimension: 141 x 217 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781781807941