The Authenticity Equation

In the intricate tapestry of workplace dynamics, effective communication or collaboration are like the threads that weave the fabric of success.   Within this complex weave, countless individual stories emerge, each unique in its struggle to balance their authenticity with the demands of adaption. 

Meet Sarah (not her real name), a vivacious individual embodying the 'Yellow' personality trait in the DISC model—characterized by enthusiasm, sociability, and a gift for fostering connections. 

However, as we step into the corridors of her new organization, Sarah finds herself in a terrain where 85% of her subordinates seem to reside in a world colored by a different spectrum – one dominated by reservedness, age-old wisdom, and an analytical nature akin to the steadfast "C" or "Blue" personality traits. In this sea of subtle blues, Sarah's vibrant yellow stands out, a hue that becomes both her beacon and her challenge.  

In her relentless pursuit to elevate her team to new heights, Sarah encounters a perplexing dichotomy.  Her creative endeavors, brimming with innovative ideas and boundless enthusiasm, are met not with applause but with a chorus of criticism. The very qualities that define her, the vivacity that fuels her leadership style, seem to clash with the prevailing tones of her surroundings. 

This marks the beginning of the dedicate balance between authenticity and adaptation, where Sarah becomes the protagonist in a story that mirrors the universal challenge of harmonizing one's true self with the intricacies of workplace dynamics. 

Throughout our coaching journey, she grapples with the daunting question of how to adapt her style so she can win the hearts of her people and lead them to greater achievements. 

As she navigates this intricate tapestry, she found herself getting deeper and deeper into a space where she felt she has surrounded her authenticity, losing her yellowness.  Many a times, she contemplates the worth of staying in a job that bring her misery, tears flowing as her labor of love is turned into criticism—directly or indirectly. 

Thoughts of quitting loom around her, questioning the viability of continuing when her efforts go unappreciated. Alternatively, the temptation arises to emulate her predecessor—be less personal, care only about tasks, and restrict conversations to work-related matters. 

How does one we find the Dedicate Balance of adapting without losing their authenticity  

1. Understanding The Differences in Preference Style 

The Yellow personality thrives on people-oriented interactions, loves to talk, is optimistic, and encourages others. They are generally trusting and motivated by approval, flattery, praise, popularity, or acceptance. 

Contrastingly, the Blue personality is characterized by perfectionism, valuing accuracy and correctness. They take pride in their work, approaching tasks in a logical, analytical, and systematic way. They are fact-finders, precise, conscientious, and may lean towards criticism and testing received information. 

Do you recognizing the literal opposition in these personality traits is crucial in understanding the inevitable clashes that may arise. 

 2. Finding Common Ground  

With this awareness, it helps Sarah to appreciate her subordinates’ strengths that is clearly missing in her and adapt her style so that they can ‘hear’ her. This way, instead of completely subduing her ‘Yellow’ traits, she has learnt to communicate in a more effective manner with subordinates. She will incorporate key details and presenting information in a structured manner to satisfy the blueness need for details and structure while maintaining her enthusiasm. 

 3. Flexibility and Adaptability 

When Sarah is able to embrace the idea that authenticity doesn't mean rigidity. By remaining flexible and adapting her communication style when necessary, she found a balance between staying true to herself and effectively engaging with her people. 

 4. Seeking Feedback 

Sarah actively sought feedback from her people, aiming to understand how her communication style was perceived. This open dialogue facilitated a mutual understanding and allowed for continuous improvement without sacrificing authenticity. 

Sarah's journey highlights the challenges many face when navigating authenticity in professional relationships, especially when dealing with diverse personality traits. By understanding, adapting, and finding common ground, individuals like Sarah can strike a balance between authenticity and effective communication. In the intricate dance of workplace dynamics, the key lies not in losing oneself but in authentically adapting to foster meaningful connections. 

Do you see yourself in this story, if so how have you been adapting to your environment without compromising your core being