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Being Genuine Leads to Success

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at York U chapter.

Being Genuine Leads to Success

What do you believe the most important factor is that leads to success? What do you think the number one quality a leader must possess in order to achieve this success? Some factors such as being hard working, persistent or having the ability to generate great ideas may run through one’s mind. All these factors are important, however, emotional intelligence and being genuine are one of the most critical elements in achieving long-term success. Studies have shown that people with high EQs make $29,000 more annually than those with lower EQs. At a workplace, EQ also accounts for 58% of your job performance. Moreover, 90% of top performers usually have a high emotional intelligence. EQ is not just about how you perform at a work setting but it also occurs in everyday life when you interact with those around you.

Being genuine does not mean you have to be kind and loving to everyone. It simply means, be real and sincere to yourself and others. As we get older, we tend to conceal our feelings and subconsciously put on that fake image, for example, when you pretend that you are fond of someone when you really aren’t.  However, the chance of being able to maintain this image forever is slim. Eventually others will realize your true self, causing broken relationships and friendships to evaporate. Instead of pretending to be someone you’re not, being real and sticking to the truth will take you much further.

For those of you who may be struggling to understand what kind of qualities a “genuine” person may possess, here are four factors that help define their qualities.

Genuine people don’t try to make people like them. Living in this diverse world, we need to understand that not everyone will get along with them. We all have different personalities and values, being honest and truthful will assist in gaining more respect than forcing yourself to impress others.

Genuine people don’t pass judgement. Those who are genuine are often more open-minded and willing to accept others. They don’t judge a book by its cover but instead, they are willing to take that step and approach someone to get to know them before making any judgements.

Genuine people are generous. This is the opposite of being selfish. Genuine people care for the greater good more than their own well-being. They believe in team efforts and wish everyone to do well. They believe your success is their success. 

Genuine people treat everyone with respect. Because genuine people believe they are no better than others and don’t view themselves in a higher position than others, they treat others with respect.

There are a lot more when it comes to being genuine, however, the conclusion is, genuine people know who they are and are true to themselves and others. If you’re not genuine and lack emotional intelligence, no matter how smart or creative you are, others won’t value the skills you have. A true leader and a road to success is the combination of emotional intelligence and a genuine smile.

Sources

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/importance-being-genuine-dr-travis-bradberry