Mamaearth's Ghazal Alagh believes 'just be yourself' is the worst advice at work. Here's why

Mamaearth co-founder Ghazal Alagh is challenging one of the most commonly repeated workplace mantras — the idea that you should “just be yourself” at work. In a recent post on LinkedIn, she called this the worst advice you could follow, especially as a leader. Her take? Authenticity isn’t about baring every version of yourself at all times — it’s about knowing which part of your true self is needed in the moment.

Reflecting on her leadership journey, Ghazal shared how she’s learned to navigate the fine line between being genuine and being intentional. From the version of herself that overthinks strategy at midnight to the one that rallies a team through uncertainty — all of these are real. But leadership, she believes, is about choosing wisely which version to bring forward, depending on the situation.

She says the leaders she admires most don’t simply show up as-is. Instead, they read the energy in the room, inspire through words, and project steadiness even when dealing with internal doubt. They model the resilience they want to see in others and set high standards that encourage growth — all without being performative.



Ghazal explained that the same person who admits vulnerability in a closed-door strategy meeting may also need to exude confidence when communicating that strategy company-wide. Both actions are authentic, she insists, but each belongs in its own context. Her post ends with a powerful question to fellow leaders and professionals: How do you balance showing up as your authentic self while still being the version your team truly needs?