The Business of Authenticity
Just as many of us do, each day when I get to the office, I sit down at my desk, open my laptop, review emails and plan my day. At some point during this daily de-ja-vu routine, I find myself glancing at a little rock with the words Be Authentic written on it. Here’s the story of that little rock.
Steadfast City hosted a team summit, taking the time to reflect on the past year as well as talk about goals, strategic planning and growth for the upcoming year. To ensure our takeaways would sustain long after we departed, we each took a rock and wrote down something we want to bring with us into the next year. So, from the shores of Lake Erie in Huron, OH, where the summit took place, that little rock traveled with me to Steadfast City’s Rochester, NY office with its inspiring new inscription.
Since the summit, that little rock has been there to remind me of three things when I start my day:
I’m supported. If there was one big-fat takeaway from the company summit, it’s that our personal and team growth goes together. Our pace might be steadfast, but no one is left behind.
I’m a part of something greater than myself. Our team is driven by the notion to Develop Better in all we do. Our dedicated work ethic and collaborative energy is contagious, which makes us hungrier for even better results and bigger impact.
I’m reminded to be actually authentic. It’s easier said than done, but in my experience, qualities of humility, vulnerability and imperfection offer greater experiences than those driven by pride or fear of imperfection.
In economic and community development consulting, we are in the business of authenticity. Our imperfections make us human and allow us to tap into areas of growth. Its the authentic moments and vulnerability that connect us with one another in meaningful and impactful ways.
