For years, I wore a mask. Not a physical one.
Something far more constricting.
Growing up in South America was rich in experiences.
Climbing coconut trees, schooling my Rhode Island Red hens, losing myself in Enid Blyton books, fuelled by the sun and endless imagination.
When I was sent to live in England, my peers’ stories felt worlds apart – TV, video games, holidays…
🐠 My survival strategy?
Silence “If I don’t speak, I won’t stand out. Won’t look different”
But silence is a barrier, not a bridge.
I shrunk. Faded into the background
The day I shared a childhood story was terrifying. Yet transformative.
𝗜 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 :
· Authenticity is both liberating and magnetic
· Our unique experiences are our greatest leadership strength
· Genuine connections emerge when we show our true selves
· Vulnerability connects us more deeply than conformity
This journey reshaped my approach to leadership and connection.
Leadership isn’t about fitting in.
It’s about standing out, sharing our true selves and creating space for others to do the same 🌟
Have you ever hidden parts of yourself? What happened when you let the mask slip?
Discover more from Vera Woodhead
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.