When we recognize the gifts we bring and the strengths we possess, we are free to step off the treadmill of other’s demands of us. We are free to say no to what doesn't relate to our Masterpiece Work and yes to those things that do. We find the courage to be fully who we are and do the Masterpiece Work God created for us long ago. That work that makes our heart sing and allows us to contribute our best to the world.
Authenticity in the Workplace
Have you ever stopped to consider what it would look like to be your authentic self in the workplace? First, let’s define what this does NOT mean. It doesn’t mean everyone you work with knowing your deepest darkest secrets. Rather, it means you can count on your teammates to support you in your best work…and they could count on the same from you. Your authenticity provides a benefit to others. It’s not just about you. Masterpiece Work is done in community!
How do we find this freedom to be our authentic self? It requires stepping out of our comfortable misery and into a new space, a space we’re not familiar with, but a space that will become our positive comfort zone. Going to this place requires risk. It requires becoming vulnerable and taking a risk of failure. (And here’s a secret……you’re going to fail in the beginning if you’re taking a big enough risk.)
Vulnerability Equals…..
Many have equated vulnerability with weakness. Shame researcher Brené Brown, says that’s not so. From Daring Greatly: “Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren't always comfortable, but they're never weakness.”
As a high achiever, you don’t take small steps and leave it at that. You expect to do big things. The question is, will you take risks that reveal your authentic self? Will you take the kind of risk that allows others to see your vulnerabilities?
Becoming vulnerable is the only way to connect with others. Brené Brown writes in Daring Greatly, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.”
The Importance of Connection
People don’t develop relationships with others who avoid sharing life with them. Connecting with others is the only way to do our Masterpiece Work. Regardless of the field you choose, there is always some connection to other people. Let’s face it, a marketplace of only one person wouldn’t produce much commerce!
I’ve learned this lesson in the past few years. I know I have gifts and strengths to share with the world. I want to contribute at my highest level. But if those who could benefit from my services don’t know I exist, how can they possibly benefit from my Masterpiece Work?
Shine Your Light
Jesus refers to this in the Sermon on the Mount. He says “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” (Matthew 5:14-16)
I can talk a good game on this, but until I’m ready to be vulnerable and share the work God’s called me to do with those who benefit from it, I am only fooling myself. The only way to share God’s light in me is to step out and shine my authentic self, my true gifts in front of others. Until I share my authentic gifts, I’m not capable of making the impact that my Masterpiece work demands. I need to share it with others who will benefit from it, who will use it to find and move into their own Masterpiece Work.
It’s the same for you. As a high-achiever, you shine God’s light into the world by your actions and your vulnerability to reveal your true self. It takes courage to step off the treadmill of good enough and step into the work that makes the biggest difference.
Bob Buford called that moving from success to significance. That’s a great description. Your Masterpiece Work has significance to those who benefit from it and you will appreciate the significance of what you do in the fruit of your labor.
What will it take to move into a new level of authenticity, being vulnerable and open so you can do the Masterpiece Work created for you? What will it mean to step into the freedom of authenticity in your Masterpiece Work? How will doing your Masterpiece Work impact those you serve?
Are you ready to take that step? Join us to explore your Masterpiece Work at the Activate Your Masterpiece™ Workshop on September 30. Finding that place where you know when to say yes and when to say no can free you to step off the treadmill of good enough and into excellence in the work you were created to do. Register now to save $50 and know you’ll have a spot for a very important day.
