I had some trouble connecting with this boss.  He was a nice enough guy but he took everything I said so literally.  I like to kid around.  When I was in his office and spoke, he’d sit back, reflect, and then comment on what I had said.  This, for me, was very unnerving.  I found myself avoiding him in passageways, elevators or anywhere else I might have to talk to him.  Finally I called my old boss and confided in him on my feelings.  His response was, “Chip, I didn’t like you when I first met you but you grew on me.  Just be you. You are your best asset!”

Days later, my boss was walking by as I chomped on a bag of UTZ brand potato chips.  In an attempt at humor, he pointed to the bag and then at me saying, “UTZ….LUTZ!”  Since he was opening the door, I decided to step right in and seize this opportunity.  So I immediately told him this story:

“Sir, did you know that my great grandmother actually started the UTZ Potato Chip Company?  Yes, it was back in the ’20’s.  She started making them in the basement just for family and friends.  The company took off and, before you know it, she was accumulating quite a bit of cash and expanding.  Well, this was right after the Lindburgh child kidnapping.  In fear of someone kidnapping one her grandchildren and trying to extort money, she figured she needed to do something.  So she told the board to change the name of the company and… ‘GET THE “L” OUT OF THERE!’”

He stood there, as usual, reflecting on what I had said.  Then, he chuckled, shook his head and walked away.  We connected that day.  We connected because I shed the worry of what he might think and let who I was be my guide.

Authenticity counts in today’s world.  At home and especially at work.   Sometimes, we get so busy worrying about managing the perceptions others have of us that we make ourselves miserable trying to be something we are not.  Take the same advice I got and “BE YOU!”  You are your best asset.  I will just add this caveat:  “Be you, unless you’re an ass, then be a slightly nicer version of you!”  Step up, stand out, and stay gold!