Why Authenticity and Resilience Are My Greatest Assets as an Employment Advocate

As an employment advocate, my work isn't just about understanding the law; it's about understanding the human story behind every case. I recently revisited Steven Bartlett’s "Diary of a CEO," and it struck a chord with me regarding how I approach my role and the values that drive what I do every day.  

Learning to "Out-Fail" the Competition.

In advocacy, as in entrepreneurship, the fear of failure can be paralysing. Bartlett argues that we must "out-fail" the competition, not by failing for the sake of it, but by learning from those failures more effectively than anyone else.  

For me, this means viewing every challenging case or setback as a stepping stone to innovation. Resilience and adaptability are non-negotiable in my field. By embracing failure as a crucial part of the journey, I can foster a mindset that prioritises growth over the fear of making mistakes, ultimately becoming a more effective voice for those I represent.  

The Power of the "Self Story"

One of the most profound takeaways from the book is the idea to "Never Compromise Your Self Story". Our personal narratives shape how we see ourselves and how we make decisions. Bartlett warns against altering your story to fit external expectations, which leads to a loss of authenticity.  

In employment advocacy, integrity is everything. I’ve learned that:  

• Integrity outweighs image: It is more important to be right and honest than to simply look the part.  

  
  

• Authenticity is a strength: Embracing unique perspectives and experiences allows me to build genuine connections with my clients.  

  
  

• Trusting instincts: I’ve developed greater confidence in my instincts, ensuring I don’t second-guess the values that lead me to fight for what is fair.  

  
  

Skills vs. Context: Why My Perspective Matters

Bartlett makes a provocative claim: "Your Skills Are Worthless, But Your Context is Valuable". While skills can be replicated, the unique context, my experiences, relationships, and understanding of the environment, is what provides true value.  

As an advocate, my "context" is my secret weapon. It’s the ability to understand the specific circumstances surrounding a workplace dispute and leveraging my unique background to differentiate my approach. This context allows for more effective decision-making and a deeper impact on the lives of those I help.  

Filling the Five Buckets

Finally, Bartlett speaks about the "Five Buckets" of well-being: Health, Relationships, Purpose, Growth, and Finances.  

The most critical lesson for me was this: If you don’t have the first bucket (Health), you cannot fill the others. To be a fierce advocate for others, I must first prioritise my own physical and mental well-being. My "Purpose", engaging in work that aligns with my values, is what keeps me going, but it is supported by a foundation of health and continuous growth.  

What This Means for My Work

Reviewing these principles reminds me why I do what I do. I am not just a practitioner of rules; I am a navigator of human experiences. By accepting failure without fear, staying true to my self-story, and leveraging my unique context, I can provide the most authentic and effective advocacy possible.