Creating a safe and trusting environment at work isn’t just a trend — it’s what helps people feel supported, engaged, and ready to do their best.
Over the next several weeks, we’ll be sharing ways to build psychologically safe workplaces.
The focus of this post is: Authenticity.
💭Authenticity matters — people should feel comfortable showing up as themselves without fear of judgment. Most of us can’t (and shouldn’t) separate our home and work selves. This isn’t Severance!
🌏 Real-Life Example
When my son was younger, he was struggling both at home and in preschool. I was juggling full-time work, frequent travel, and the emotional weight of raising a neurodivergent child.
My manager told me I could only talk about my son “if it was positive.”
That moment changed how I showed up at work. I began to censor myself, constantly wondering what was okay to say or suggest.
Was it safe to express disagreement? Could I mention a new idea? Would I be seen as negative if I raised a concern?
It’s no surprise that this kind of environment doesn’t foster great work. The expectation to always be happy or avoid discomfort is far too common. However, our humanity, with its full range of emotions, is what makes us empathetic, creative, and resilient employees.
🌱 How to Build Authenticity
Start by being authentic yourself.
Share something personal, a book you’re reading, a show you’re watching, a hobby, or something meaningful from your life. Small glimpses of who we are build connection and trust.
⚠️ Not all teams are psychologically safe.
Authenticity takes leadership and care. It’s not always easy or appropriate to be fully open in every environment, especially where there’s fear of reprimand, exclusion, or retaliation. That’s why leaders must take responsibility for setting the tone.
When people feel safe and supported, teams collaborate more easily, communicate more clearly, and find better solutions together.
At Radiant Catalyst, we help organizations create people-first cultures where authenticity builds trust, the foundation of every high-functioning, sustainable team.
💡 What’s one small action you or your leaders could take this week to support authenticity in your workplace?
“Authenticity is the spark that turns connection into trust.”