In recent years, we have seen an increase in conversations related to two extremes in the workplace. On one side is the pressure to express the “whole self,” while on the other is the pressure to conform. The desire to fit in can particularly lead to suppressing one’s personal values and pretending to embrace organizational values, a behavior Hewlin has termed as creating “facades of conformity.” Both extremes of authenticity and conformity carry distinct risks and potential harm to our well-being. In this session, Hewlin bridges decades of her empirical research and real-world application to help people navigate these tensions. Drawing from her book, Staying True to You, she introduces a revolutionary concept: The Middle Self. Attendees will learn how the Middle Self serves as a powerful framework to comfortably manage the daily trade-offs between authenticity and conformity, leaving them with actionable strategies to cultivate personal integrity and peace of mind.

Dr. Patricia Faison Hewlin is an award-winning behavioral scientist with 20+ years of experience researching authenticity and conformity around the world. Currently a Professor of Social-Organizational Psychology at the Teachers College of Columbia University, Dr. Hewlin holds her PhD in organizational behavior and MBA in finance from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Her work has been featured in mainstream media, including the Huffington Post, The Times (UK), Harvard Business Review Online, and The Globe and Mail. In addition to her research and teaching, Dr. Hewlin is also a professional consultant who works with major companies, as well as arts organizations.

Hosted by Monica Worline, Faculty Director, Center for Positive Organizations

Register here for this free online event. Please note, this event has been standardized to the Eastern Time Zone.