Rediscovering Authenticity: Insights from Japan

This summer, my long-time dream came true—I visited Japan. It’s a fascinating country with a rich culture and history, and I found it to be as efficient and clean as Switzerland. The blend of tradition, such as the art of paper-making, and innovation, like robots and super-fast trains, amazed me. However, one thing surprised me the most—the incredible calmness and silence of the Japanese people.

In the busy streets, there are almost no arguments or car horns, and public transportation is eerily quiet. Everyone seems composed and immersed in their own world.

Curious about this phenomenon, I delved deeper and discovered the concepts of Honne and Tatemae, which are cultivated in Japan from a very young age:

• Honne (本音): A person’s true feelings, desires, or intentions, often kept private and shared only with close friends or family.
• Tatemae (建前): The facade or behavior and opinions displayed in public, adhering to societal expectations and norms to maintain harmony and avoid conflict.

These concepts highlight the cultural importance of harmony, politeness, and social conformity in Japan, where directness is often avoided to maintain positive relationships and social order.

While I deeply respect the Japanese pursuit of harmony and mutual respect, it made me ponder. Many of us have adopted a form of Tatemae—behaving, looking, and talking as expected rather than as we truly are. How often do we suppress our true thoughts and beliefs to avoid conflict and gain acceptance?

This broader concept affects not just our communication but our entire lives—our choices, beliefs, career paths, and relationships. It can lead to a lack of authenticity and the betrayal of our true selves for the sake of conformity.

And for your personal brand, a lack of authenticity can be detrimental.

To be clear, I fell in love with Japan! It’s beautiful, fascinating, and exciting. It’s delicious, clean, and safe, and so different from what I grew up with. I’d go there again and again because there’s so much more to discover.

I have deep respect for every country, its traditions, and its culture. Exploring and experiencing it all while traveling is truly inspiring and mind-opening.

As September approaches (for me, it’s a month of recalibration and decluttering), I have an exercise for you related to the Tatemae concept. I’d like you to ask yourself these questions in relation to your brand, career, and long-term vision:

• Am I authentically expressing myself in my daily life?
• Do I always say what I truly mean and want to say?
• Do I sometimes stay silent because I'm afraid of external opinions?
• Am I honest with myself about what I want and who I want to become?
• What is more important to me: what others think or staying true to who I am?

Taking the time to reflect on these questions can help you realign with your true self and ensure your personal brand reflects your authentic voice.

I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this journey toward authenticity!