Some Ways to Develop Adaptive Authenticity
- Clarify your non-negotiables
- Know what values and principles define you.
- Ask: “What do I stand for even when things get hard?”
“… Anchor in values, not moods. Your values are the bedrock of authentic behaviour. They don't change with circumstances, but your expression of them can…”
Michelle Gibbings, 2025i
- Develop situational awareness
- Observe group dynamics, emotions and readiness for change.
- Realise that every situation is different and needs to be treated appropriately
- Ask: “What’s needed from me here and now?”
- Experiment with expression
- Try different communication styles, tones or formats; however, endeavour to stay genuine but flexible.
- Growth often feels inauthentic because it is unfamiliar
“… Authenticity emerges through alignment between your evolving self and your context, not from rigid consistency…”
Michelle Gibbings, 2025i
- Reflect and realign
- After key interactions, ask: “Did I stay true to my intent? Did I adapt effectively?”
“… the healthiest leaders are those who can flex their behaviours without fracturing their identity…”
Michelle Gibbings, 2025i
- Seek feedback (not validation)
- Encourage others to tell you when you’re being too rigid or too chameleon-like.
- Challenge yourself and consider whether your intentions and impacts are aligning
- Self-awareness grows not in isolation but in conversation
(main source: Michelle Gibbings, 2025i)