I remember the feeling of absolute dread when I realized that Silly Putty had gotten stuck to the inside of one of my coat pockets, and no one was going to help me get it out. After all, this wasn't grade school; this was during my first management job.
Why did I have Silly Putty? Because I love to fidget. And why was it in my coat pocket? Because I didn't want anyone to know I had it.
Being my own boss, I've had a unique opportunity to get to know myself on a much deeper level. For instance, I often engage in internal dialogue with myself around questions such as:
How do you think this work should be organized?
What feels fair and right for your work hours this week?
Where would you get your best work done today?
How do you want to celebrate this achievement?
Interestingly, this never-ending Q&A session has led me to confront the intricacies of my own brain. I've discovered ways to supercharge my passion and focus to wow my clients. I've also identified ways to drain myself of my energy. Every time I've learned something new, I've had the chance to make adjustments to my processes, job aids, physical environment, and even job description. (What a luxury to build a company and career from the ground up!)
There are so many things I've learned through self-employment that I wish I could've told my younger self. One of the first that comes to mind is:
STOP HIDING SILLY PUTTY IN YOUR POCKETS.
You are a wild creature with amazing energy.
Get yourself some actual fidget toys, so you feel more comfortable at work. Your energy contributes to your success.
It's somewhat heartbreaking to think about all the ways in which I've deprived my brain of what it has craved in order to "save face" as a leader. Yet, with the start of a new business, I've given myself permission to more visibly bring an authentic (and comfortable) version of myself to the workplace. Sometimes that means I'm holding a squishy ball or marking accomplishments on a sticker chart. (Holy dopamine, I missed sticker charts!)
And here's what's happened:
My brain has triumphantly shouted, "You've finally listened!" 🥹 As a result, it's given me back some energy to be more present and creative.
I've signaled to clients and colleagues that they, too, can be authentic and comfortable around me. (This has led to interesting coaching conversations and sparked others to explore how they could make their own work more joyful for their brains.)
I've attracted the types of clients I want to work with and, I can only assume, filtered out the ones who likely wouldn't find us to be a good fit. (While we may not be everyone's cup of tea, we are some companies' chai tea latte. And I'm deeply okay with that. ☕️)
So, I invite you to reflect on what helps you* bring the best version of yourself to your work. What are some small (or big) ways to give your brain a hug?
*For some readers, I recognize that bringing your "most authentic and comfortable" self to work may not feel or even be safe. 💙 I also know this blog post may raise questions or thoughts around asking for workplace accommodations related to being neurodivergent and/or having a disability. Here are a few resources, and I'd be happy to add to this list if you have other suggestions! (Support@JesseFavre.com)
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