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In the latest episode of "Lead with Levity," Dr. Heather Walker delves into these unspoken fears with senior executive coach Colleen Slaughter. Colleen's inspiring journey began at age 21 when she moved to Paris with no money, no plan, and no knowledge of French. Since then, she has worked with Fortune 500 companies and Nobel Peace Prize recipients, helping leaders overcome self-doubt and limiting beliefs. Let's explore Colleen's insights on embracing authenticity in the workplace.

The Challenge of Authenticity

In the introduction, Dr. Heather Walker poses several thought-provoking questions:

• Why do we avoid difficult conversations?
• What are we afraid of?
• How can we show up authentically when professionalism seems like a shield to hide behind?

These questions set the stage for a deep and meaningful conversation with Colleen Slaughter.

Colleen's Journey to Authenticity
Colleen recounts her daring move to Paris and how it shaped her career. Working with leaders worldwide, she noticed a common theme: the reluctance to speak up and the internal struggle between professional expectations and personal integrity.

Heather shares a similar experience with the language barrier during a trip to Paris, highlighting the universal challenge of connecting authentically despite external pressures.

Culture and Authenticity
Colleen explains how different cultures perceive authenticity at work. For example, leaders in France and Germany often face hierarchical barriers, whereas Dutch professionals tend to be blunt and direct. She emphasizes that genuine brainstorming and co-creation require leaders to build trust and create an environment where team members feel safe to express their true thoughts.

The Role of Trust
Trust is fundamental to authentic leadership. Colleen stresses the importance of understanding the different aspects of trustworthiness, such as reliability, intimacy, credibility, and low self-orientation. Leaders must strive to be trustworthy across all these dimensions to foster a genuine and open workplace.

Courageous Conversations
One of the key strategies Colleen discusses is the need for courageous conversations. She encourages leaders to set boundaries and express their true feelings respectfully. This approach not only builds trust but also ensures that team dynamics are honest and constructive.

Key Takeaways

• Small Changes Make a Big Difference: Colleen encourages making small, intentional changes to bring more joy and authenticity to everyday life.
• Practice Self-compassion: Being gentle with oneself creates the foundation for authentic behavior and better relationships.
• Embrace Courageous Conversations: Honest and respectful dialogue is crucial for building trust and fostering a harmonious workplace.

Stay Connected with Colleen
For those interested in learning more about Colleen's work and receiving weekly insights, visit https://www.bouldermoves.com.

Conclusion
Authenticity in the workplace is not an overnight achievement. It demands intention, courage, and a commitment to personal growth. By embracing these principles and fostering an environment of trust, leaders can create a more genuine and productive workspace.

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