harrytucker

Authenticity is a measure of how our internal intentions, our expressed intentions and our actual execution are in alignment. It is also an expression of how we observe this level of authenticity in others, what we expect from others and what we do when we do not receive the level of authenticity that we desire.

It is not an expression of "honesty" or "how good a person is". A person could consider themselves to be dishonest, could be considered to be dishonest by others and do dishonest things and therefore by definition, would still be an authentic individual.

How do we define authenticity in ourselves and others? Do we have the same definition in both situations?

Do we see authenticity in the world at all levels of society, ranging from the individual up to large corporations, governments, educational institutions, religious organizations, NGOs and other organizations? If so, are we participating in this dialog? If not, are we doing something about it and if not, why not?

Why is authenticity more important than ever and what are the ramifications of not being authentic?

Authenticity is not easy for people to embrace. Some people fear authenticity for a variety of reasons or allow their ego to define their authentic engagement with others. Others prefer the "ignorance is bliss" model and would rather allow status quo to carry the day, even if status quo is painful for them. For some, an authentic dialog reveals an inner self that they would rather not share or expose to others for a variety of reasons and so they avoid such dialog.

Authentic dialog at all levels of society is more important than ever for political, societal, economic and ecological reasons. Having transparent, authentic dialog is the only way to get everyone engaged in these areas - engaged in a manner that produces results and not just good feelings that someone is thinking about something.

Harry and Leonard are preparing to embark on their Quest for Authenticity to explore these and other questions regarding authenticity. For Harry, a Fortune 25 strategy advisor, speaker and author, and Leonard, a licensed psychotherapist, speaker and author, it is not an easy task. After all, one goes on a quest to seek answers but when one does this, it is important that the intention is not to create a hoped-for result. This would NOT be an authentic dialog or result.

Harry and Leonard come from two worlds culturally, professionally and personally. They are left-brained and right-brained respectively. How will they engage with each other as well as with others in their own personal quests for authenticity?

The diagram below illustrates the core cyclical nature of what empowers or disempowers an individual, creating a life that is closer to or further from the desired result.

Click on the image below to the view a common lifecycle.

An authentic dialog is not easy to begin and is not always gentle. However it is necessary and can be very revealing when ego is reduced, thus allowing our skills, knowledge, talent and passion to shine.

Howard Thurman wrote “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

Such a call to action requires authentic dialog.

Such a dialog requires courage.

Are you ready to engage in such a dialog?