#42: Never Be Yourself at Work? Why Words and Context Matter

There’s a lot of confusion around authenticity at work. On one hand, we’re told: be authentic. On the other, we’re told: not here, not at work.

This episode was sparked by a podcast clip where a guest boldly said: “Never be yourself at work.” The title was designed to grab attention, and it did. But it also revealed just how often the words authenticity and professional are misused and misunderstood.

When workplaces say they value authenticity and then add a quiet “but,” it creates distortion. It leaves people wondering: Which self am I allowed to bring? And what happens if I don’t fit the rules?

This is where words and context matter. Because every system defines “professionalism” differently. And if we don’t pause to reflect, we can end up splitting ourselves in ways that cost us our health, creativity, and connection.