Authentic Self at Work: Fostering Belonging Through Vulnerability

Key Quotes

"I really felt different. I really I struggled with dyslexia at a very young age about eight -- as when my parents at least took me started taking me to the tutors and whatnot and immediately because of that I literally absorbed the thought that I was dumb and I really mean that dumb."

Claude Silver explains that her early struggles with dyslexia led her to internalize the belief that she was "dumb." This self-perception significantly impacted her confidence and outlook, illustrating how early learning challenges can shape one's self-identity. Silver highlights that this internal narrative was a significant hurdle she had to overcome throughout her life.

"I was great with sports, great with friends, I'm highly intuitive and empathetic, which a lot of dyslexics are because we have to learn the world in a different way and I knew really from an early age that I was very good just gathering people together like as a captain if you will."

Despite her struggles with dyslexia, Claude Silver recognized her innate strengths in leadership and interpersonal connection. She notes that her intuitive and empathetic nature, often associated with learning differences, allowed her to excel as a captain in sports. Silver's observation suggests that perceived weaknesses can coexist with significant, often overlooked, strengths.

"I really needed to focus on in my entire life -- was not being a doormat. So if you're a people person, not being a people pleaser, and there's obviously a big difference, which many of us learn later on in life after some pitfalls."

Claude Silver identifies a crucial distinction between being a "people person" and a "people pleaser," emphasizing the importance of not being a doormat. She suggests that this is a common life lesson, often learned through difficult experiences. Silver's statement underscores the need for individuals to assert themselves while maintaining positive relationships.

"Labels are for soup cans, not for people. Who defines us? And you were calling yourself that, or was it the society that convinced you of that? Or was it both? It was both. It was both. It was school, that academic institutions..."

Claude Silver asserts that labels, whether societal or self-imposed, do not define a person's potential. She explains that her own negative self-labeling stemmed from both academic institutions and societal pressures. Silver's quote challenges the notion that external definitions should dictate one's capabilities and encourages individuals to reject limiting labels.

"I realized that 10 years ago when I told my boss, Gary Vaynerchuk, 'I want to write a book.' And I will tell you, as that person that thought I was dumb, I almost laughed as it came out of my mouth. Why would I ever take on such a job, such a journey?"

Claude Silver recounts the moment she decided to write her book, admitting her initial disbelief and self-doubt due to her past belief of being "dumb." She shared this aspiration with her boss, Gary Vaynerchuk, to ensure accountability. Silver's reflection highlights the internal battle against long-held negative self-perceptions when pursuing ambitious goals.

"I'm asking people to take a journey, and if it takes them the next 20 years, 50 years, or a day to figure out more about themselves, then amazing. That is great because, as I say in the beginning, we are the CEO of me. I'm the only one that can do that."

Claude Silver emphasizes personal responsibility and self-discovery, stating that individuals are the "CEO of me." She encourages readers to embark on a lifelong journey of self-understanding, regardless of the timeline. Silver's perspective empowers individuals to take ownership of their personal growth and development.

"The heart is the strongest muscle we have in our body. Without a human being, you're not getting any AI built tomorrow, my friends. And whomever said, 'Employees are the single greatest asset in the workplace' -- no, employees are your workplace. You don't have a company without them."

Claude Silver argues that human connection and the presence of people are fundamental to any workplace, even in the age of AI. She reframes the concept of employees as not just an asset, but the very foundation of a company. Silver's statement underscores the irreplaceable value of human beings in driving business success.