Many of us are working in careers defined by our sixteen-year-old selves. So says modern day philosopher and School of Life founder Alain de Botton.

It’s true that up to that point in our childhood and adolescence we probably hadn’t given our career much detailed or strategic thought. Building authenticity simply was not on the agenda as we already were just that – authentic and uncomplicated.

Some of us continued to enjoy the romantic bubble of dream jobs like ballerina, astronaut, football player or unicorn trainer. Others were idealistically planning to change the world as lawyers, doctors and film directors. Most of us were still just enjoying being kids and dealing with the emotional trauma of teenage life.

Then, suddenly and without warning, a ‘responsible adult’ asked us that simple question and things changed forever:

‘What are you going to do with your life?’

The seeds sown that day likely still resonate with us now. The rest, as they say, is history.

Fast forward to our modern, ambitious and career motivated times. How far have we compromised on our original dreams? Do we love what we do or are we kidding ourselves? Equally would we love to ‘keep it real’ but hey, we’ve got a mortgage to pay, right? Building authenticity in a busy, complex and social media driven world is difficult.

The payoff is worth the pain.

Building authenticity in your professional and personal life is proven to stimulate wellbeing and happiness. Further research shows that not only does it make you happy, but it fosters greater trust and confidence in others. You become more honest, transparent and focused on the here and now. Building authenticity is good!

We run a Rainbow Lab where we spend time experimenting with a range of sensory learning experiences related to interpersonal skills. Recently we have developed an unconventional but simple way to reconnect with your inner self and support you on your journey of building authenticity. We liked the results so much we ran it as a workshop for a client and they loved it! It focuses on one sense in particular and here it is, just for you.

Your sense of smell is well-known for its power to invigorate or nauseate.

It’s connection with personal memory and its ability to smell a rat or something fishy is the stuff of legend and fairytale. You can harness this sense to explain some of the ways you react and respond to everyday situations. Give it a try as follows:

1. In many natural stores you can find aromatherapy oils based around different moods and feelings. They are easy to find and the staff are usually very knowledgeable and passionate.

2. Grab a few and then in quiet comfort at home do a blind sniff test.

3. Choose your favourite one. Don’t overthink it. Go with your instinct.

4. The smell you have migrated to will give you a surprisingly accurate view on your authentic self. I have seen smells around everything from calm and compassionate to alluring and cosmic. Which are you?

5. Consider a challenging situation at work. A difficult client or a conflict with a colleague.

6. How did you react at the time? How far were you really you? Did you compromise or stay true to your authentic self?

7. Relate your thoughts, reaction and subsequent actions to the scent. How far did one reflect the other? You WILL be surprised! I promise!

8. What could you do differently next time? Could this be a first, simple step to building authenticity?

So, remember what Alain said. We are likely still existing in the hangover of other people’s expectations. How can we start a journey towards a more fulfilling career? One where we have reflected on who we really are and what makes us truly happy? Work can be a great opportunity for discovery and growth. So, follow your nose.

Want to know more about building authenticity?

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