How to Be Yourself (and Not Just the 'Work You')

EPISODE 50 "Your relationship with other people changes over time. So should the relationship with yourself. "Welcome back to Return, the podcast about ditching labels, boxes, and burnout, and returning to the truest version of YOU. This week, we’re diving into the wild journey of being yourself—not the “work you” or the “play-it-safe you,” but the version of you that really lights you up. You know, the one that gets lost under all the responsibilities, to-do lists, and expectations.If you’ve ever felt stuck in your business, like you need to “be everywhere” and show up a certain way to succeed, this episode is for you. We’ll explore why being true to yourself isn’t a one-time discovery, but an ongoing evolution. You’ll hear how you can reconnect with your most authentic self—even as a creative entrepreneur managing multiple roles and pressures.I’ll share some reflection exercises that are perfect for carving out space in your busy life to explore who you are beneath all the layers and personas. Whether you’re navigating corporate habits, client demands, or the ever-present hustle of expansion, it’s time to ask: Who am I really? And how can I show up more fully in my work, life, and relationships?Key Takeaways:What it really means to “be yourself”: Spoiler—there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and it’s not about following the ‘rules’ you’ve been taught.Why the “nice girl” or “professional you” might be holding you back: How to drop the personas that no longer serve you.Reflection exercises to dive deeper: Find out what parts of yourself you’ve been hiding and how to bring more of your capital-Y You into your work and life.How evolving identities play into your business: Let go of the idea that you have to show up one way to be a ‘serious’ entrepreneur.Real talk on self-discovery: Why it’s a continuous journey and how to start uncovering your next layer of authenticity.Actionable Exercises:Journal on what parts of you feel most alive, even if they don’t seem ‘professional’ or ‘polished.’ How can you bring more of that into your business?Ask yourself: “What have people told me about who I am? And do I agree?” This can be a powerful way to rethink your roles and how you show up—especially as an entrepreneur balancing creative freedom with structured work.Experiment with saying “no” to opportunities or tasks that don’t align with your authentic self. What would your business look like if it reflected more of who you truly are?Ready to dive in? Press play and start peeling back those layers!Connect with Caitlan:Instagram: @returnpod Website: https://www.caitlansiegenthaler.com/Book a Human Design Reading: https://unmarred-ease-0f1.notion.site/Human-Design-Offerings-5bcb73e0726b4a4e91476130f1753a1f❤️‍🔥 Use code RETURN at checkout for a 15% discount on all readings expires October 13th, 2024 Timestamps:00:00 Welcome to thSupport the showProduced by Caitlan SiegenthalerCover Art by Kiara OparaIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend, post it to your Instagram stories, and tag me. And if you really loved it, the best thank-you is a written review on Apple Podcasts or a comment on Spotify. That is a beautiful energetic exchange for Caitlan creating the show.