A corporate identity loosely translates to how a corporation, firm, or business enterprise presents itself to the public. It dictates how you dress, speak and to some extent relate with people depending on the type of job.
This identity is built from office cultures and values which ultimately influence how the employees behave and carry themselves.
It’s not all bad because it does get the job done; however, we are continuously exposed to this persona that we, unfortunately, risk dimming the very things that make us our authentic selves. The time spent in the office or at work is quite substantial thus can have undesired effects on our personal lives if not checked.
The good news is, some things can be done to keep and even grow these very things that keep us true to our authentic selves. Activities or rather measures one can put in to stay in touch with who they truly are away from the office culture, values, and overall corporate identity.
Hobbies
Intentionally and purposefully engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment is one way to bring back that light that has been dimmed. Some include swimming, reading, poetry, traveling, and writing. These activities help move the mind from the structured form of thinking from work. Not only does one get rest and actuality but also the excitement of life back.
Hobbies also open opportunities for meeting people with similar interests thus helping in discovering more about not just yourselves but also other people.
Moreover, they help build experiences and happiness outside work thus filling your cup. Remember you cannot pour from an empty cup.
Alone Time
Time alone clears perspectives. Setting aside at least an hour to yourself is essential for decompressing and detaching from the hassle of work and co-workers.
It allows being quite intuitive and grounded. This time can be used to do whatever, from meditating, writing, or reviewing goals, and even just resting.
Stepping back from the noise will help you do away with inconsistencies, clear out any blurs keeping that authentic self refreshed and rejuvenated every so often.
Family and friends
In most cases, the people closest to you bring out the best in you. There is a sense of belonging they provide that allows for our truest selves to blossom without fear of judgment. They provide a sense of safety, love, and appreciation that is unmatched or fake. Spending time with these people keeps you in touch with the side of you that barely gets a chance to be in the five days of back-to-back meetings.
Some signs that the corporate identity has dimmed your own identity include feeling disoriented over the weekends, having more work clothes than weekend wear, and loss of interest in things that brought you joy before. Others include difficulty in having conversations that aren’t work-related, and feeling out of place anywhere else other than the office.
A balance between work and personal life is key.
