How do you know who you really are?
And what happens when you've been living from a false identity?
I recently interviewed Identity Coach Keli DeWitt, whose role as an Interpreter of Truth is to help people uncover their true identity and live from it. Our conversation was not specific to employees in the workplace, but I couldn’t help but draw the line to employee delight!
Why This Matters in the Workplace
Just like individuals, companies thrive when their people operate from a place of authenticity. Yet too often, both leaders and employees work under false identities—limiting beliefs about their worth, abilities, and role within the organization. Employers who recognize and unlock their employees’ true strengths create workplaces where people thrive.
The Lies We Believe at Work
Keli shared a powerful example of a child who misinterpreted a simple moment—missing dessert—as proof that his mother loved his sibling more. That small belief could shape his self-perception for years.
Workplaces function the same way. Employees might think:
"My boss didn’t acknowledge my work—I must not be valuable."
"I wasn’t chosen for that project—I’m not leadership material."
"My ideas never get heard—I should just stay quiet."
These false identities lead to disengagement, burnout, and lost potential.
Employers as Interpreters of Truth
Keli uses a visual with her grandsons: a diamond covered in Play-Doh. The diamond represents true identity, while the Play-Doh symbolizes layers of false beliefs. Employers have a choice: reinforce the Play-Doh—or help employees uncover the brilliance underneath.
A workplace that intentionally sees, affirms, and calls out the true identity of its employees fosters:
Higher engagement – Employees contribute at their best when they feel seen.
Greater retention – People stay where they feel valued.
Deeper trust – Work becomes more than a transaction; it becomes purpose-driven.
The Challenge: Discovering True Identity at Work
If you lead a team, ask yourself:
Do I truly see my employees for who they are, beyond their job descriptions?
Am I creating space for people to operate in their strengths?
How can I help remove the Play-Doh so the diamonds shine?
A thriving workplace is one where identity isn’t dictated by fear, performance, or comparison but by truth.
Want to explore this more? Check out Identity Exchange for insights on identity coaching, and stay tuned for more Workplace Delight strategies on fostering an engaged, purpose-driven team.
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