Keepin’ It Real: How to Be Your Authentic Self at Work Without Losing Your Cool (or Your Job)

It’s 2025, but some workplaces still act like it’s 1995, in all the wrong ways. And while the 90s gave us butterfly clips, Lisa Frank folders, and some pretty amazing sitcoms about finding your people who keep you grounded and yet amazing(we see you, “Living Single” and “Friends”), they also gave us a generation that was told to “leave your feelings at the door” and “fake it ‘til you make it.”

At Awesomely Authentic, we believe you shouldn’t have to fake anything—except maybe that you like your coworker’s tuna salad smell in the breakroom. Being your real, rad, self at work? That’s not just feel-good fluff. It’s the key to thriving, collaborating, and not dreading the work hours ahead.

Here’s how to bring your authentic self to the office.

Keepin’ It Real with Yourself

Know Your Values

If you don’t know what you stand for, it’s easy to feel lost or out of place. Write down your top five values (like honesty, creativity, or balance). These are your workplace compass.

Practice Micro-Authenticity

You don’t need to overshare your whole life story at the next team meeting. Start small: wear that accessory that shows your personality, speak up when you disagree respectfully, or share a passion project you’re working on outside of work.

Create a Safe Space in Your Own Head

You’re your own hype crew. Replace those “What if I sound dumb?” thoughts with “What if my idea sparks something awesome?” Trust your gut. You know more than you give yourself credit for.

Be Real With Your Team

Share Your Story (At Your Pace)

You don’t have to trauma dump, but offering pieces of your journey builds trust. “Hey, I’m super into community gardening on the weekends” can go a long way in building connection.

Co-Create Team Norms

Build a team vibe where everyone feels heard. Suggest a “No Interruptions” rule in meetings, or start a norm of shoutouts at the end of each week.

Have Fun Together

Nothing builds team safety like laughing over who has the worst AIM screen name from the past. (We’re looking at you, xxSk8rBoi92xx.) Host low-pressure team moments like themed dress-up days, playlist swaps, or nostalgia trivia.

Be Authentic with Your Supervisor

Set Communication Boundaries Early

Whether you’re all about weekly check-ins or quick Teams messages, tell your supervisor what works for you. Setting the tone early helps you both show up better.

Lead with Purpose, Not Problems

If you’re struggling, frame your feedback in a solution-focused way. “I’ve noticed I do my best work with clearer expectations—can we try using a shared doc for project timelines?”

Track and Reflect

Keep a “Wins & Challenges” journal. Bring your notes to one-on-ones. It’s a low-key way to show your growth, ask for support, and flex your self-awareness muscle.

When Work Feels Less “All That”…

Real Talk: What If You’re Dealing With a Toxic Vibe?

We’ve been there. You’re living your best Lisa Turtle fantasy; stylish, capable, and confident, and yet, the culture’s more “Saved by the Bell: The College Years” (a.k.a. chaotic, disconnected, and full of bad decisions).

If You’re in a Toxic Work Culture

• Document EVERYTHING

  Save emails, messages, and that shady “joke” your coworker made. Trust us, future-you will thank present-you.

  
  

• Find Your Allies

  There’s almost always someone else who gets it. Form a buddy system. Speak up together.

  
  

• Take Micro Breaks for Your Mental Health

  Whether it’s a walk outside or a 90s playlist blast between meetings, recharge in whatever way keeps your battery alive.

If You Have an Unsupportive Supervisor

• Use Your Voice Strategically

  Request feedback, offer updates, and advocate for yourself even if they don’t initiate. Be the professional you wish they were.

  
  

• Seek Mentors Elsewhere

  Mentors don’t have to be your boss. Look across departments, ERGs, or outside orgs.

  
  

• Plan Your Exit If Needed

  If you’ve tried everything and the vibes stay rotten, don’t guilt yourself. Peace out for your peace of mind.

If Leadership Feels Disconnected

• Speak Through Impact

  Tie your ideas to business goals: “Here’s how this supports retention,” or “This boosts morale and productivity.”

  
  

• Show, Don’t Just Tell

  Lead a mini initiative, pilot a team check-in format, or share a positive story that illustrates your point.

  
  

• Don’t Wait for Permission to Lead

  Some of the best change-makers didn’t have a title—just guts and a Game Boy full of ideas.

Ready to Level Up Your Workplace Vibe?

Whether your team needs a spark, your leaders need a mindset shift, or you’re just ready to make authenticity the new norm, we got you.

Awesomely Authentic offers custom trainings, workshops, and coaching that turn those “awkward convos” into real, meaningful change. From Psychological Safety and Courageous Leadership to Conflict Resolution and Team Vibes That Don’t Suck, we’re here to help you build a workplace that’s worth showing up to.

📬 Let’s chat! Reach out at awesomelyauthentic.com and let’s get your team aligned, empowered, and keepin’ it real.

Because when you’re your authentic self at work?

You’re not just thriving. You’re winning. Now grab your scrunchie, take a breath, and go be that bold, authentic legend you were always meant to be.