Authentic or Wholehearted?

I am being fully transparent in this blog post by sharing that I went to Chat GPT for guidance.

Something I’ve thought about for quite some time but hadn’t yet gotten a grip on, is the common usage of ‘authentic’ in the workplace. Being able to bring your authentic self to work, is seen as a key driver of thriving.

However, as I’ve often pointed out to those who would listen, authentic as a descriptor just doesn’t resonate with me.

So I prompted Chat with the following: “I struggle with the word so commonly used in today’s workplace about being authentic or being allowed to be authentic. I know it’s defined as being ‘genuine’ and implies being trustworthy. However, I’ve known some very genuine and untrustworthy authentic a**holes in my life. Would a better word be wholehearted?”

And this is what Chat replied (I couldn’t have said it as well):

‘You’ve touched on a significant issue with the word “authentic,” especially as it’s often used in the workplace today. “Authentic” can indeed be a double-edged sword—while it emphasizes being genuine, it doesn’t necessarily account for the ethical or relational aspects of behavior. As you pointed out, someone can be genuinely themselves, yet still behave in ways that are harmful or untrustworthy.

The word “wholehearted” might indeed be a better alternative. Wholeheartedness implies not just being genuine, but also being fully committed, compassionate, and aligned with values that foster trust and respect. It suggests a depth of character that goes beyond merely showing up as oneself; it involves bringing one’s best, most engaged, and empathetic self to interactions.

Using “wholehearted” shifts the focus from just being true to oneself to being true in a way that also considers others and the broader impact of one’s actions. It resonates more with the idea of bringing integrity, care, and a positive spirit to the workplace, which might align more closely with the values you want to promote.

In summary, while “authentic” has its place, “wholehearted” could indeed offer a richer, more encompassing term that better captures the spirit of being both genuine and ethically sound in how we engage with others.’

Not so long ago, Adam Grant posted here on LinkedIn an image with the following quote:
“ ‘I was just being myself’ is not an excuse for disrespectful behavior. It signals a lack of concern for others.
Authenticity without empathy is selfish. Authenticity without boundaries is careless.
Being true to yourself shouldn’t come at the expense of being kind to others.”

Perhaps I’m being ‘nitpicky’ but I couldn’t shake this thought loose. So I’m venting my thoughts here. Thanks to Chat!