Author: aryask@gmail.com

Recently I got a chance to talk with Jeff Klubeck, a motivational speaker and coach. In preparing for the interview, I formed a handful of questions to explore the idea of authenticity in the workplace. I was eager to hear his ideas. It was a casual and inspired conversation. I was sitting on my exceptionally comfortable couch at home and apparently Jeff was relaxing in his backyard enjoying some sun. Here are some ideas that turned up during our talk: What does it mean to build an authentic brand? Who the hell knows what’s authentic? Everyone has their own definition. Who’s to judge if you’re being yourself or not? There’s no grading scale. My goal is to make things easy for clients and reduce friction in the process of achieving…

When I think about my favorite conversations, they are with those who listen, attentive and connected to an emerging dialogue. Though I'm willing, I don't ever feel like I have to explain myself. There is an underlying current of trust that keeps the communication effortless, surprising, and productive. Kids have such intuitions, and some of us manage to sustain or awaken it as we grow older. In the work setting, it's something like what David Horth, Author of The Leader's Edge and senior fellow at Center for Creative Leadership, calls Serious Play. Dr. Sondoozi, a long time friend and colleague, is an example of someone who engages in serious play. We have been working together to build out her brand and online presence. The way I would describe our conversation is like…

1. Be simple: who are you? And what do you want to bring into the world? Don’t over-complicate it. Know it at the root and express it however it feels. 2. You are different: There is only one of you and the universe is boundless. Be yourself, drop the image, instinctive, distinctive, present, breathing your breath in a subtle and joyful surrender. 3. Experiment with truth: when we feel purpose, or a call to adventure, we are called to try new things and stretch the creative range of our talent. It takes courage to be vulnerable and reveal oneself through the unknown. Not always comfortable, but in essence, it’s the capacity to gaze at the world in true wander, eating Truth and its’ fears for breakfast. 4. A day to…

I forget where I’ve been, I forget where I’ve been, I pretend like I know Hoping no one notices, I don’t retrieve memories I create them as I breathe, Then I forget where I’ve been I look around here and there, Sending receiving signals Maybe I’ll win something Along the way, Does it really matter if I’m in love with all of it?