Embracing Authenticity In Business: My Journey with Tattoos and Professionalism
- tmcdonald
- Jun 5, 2024
- 2 min read
In the world of business, appearances often carry significant weight. For years, I found myself caught between my passion for self-expression and the conventional expectations of professionalism. My story is one of growth, authenticity, and the courage to be unapologetically myself.
The Journey of Covering Up
For a long time, I felt the need to hide my tattoos. I would cover them with long sleeves and suit jackets, sacrificing my own comfort and self-expression to fit a mold that I believed clients expected. The fear of judgment was a constant companion, making me feel ashamed of the very artwork that told my story. I wore those suit jackets not because I wanted to, but because I thought I had to. I felt like my tattoos would overshadow my skills and expertise. I was afraid clients wouldn't take me seriously.

Breaking Free from the Suit Jacket
The turning point came when I realized that the discomfort of hiding my true self was far greater than the fear of judgment. I decided it was time to embrace my authenticity, to let my tattoos be seen and to let my personality shine through.
Covering up my tattoos was like covering up a part of who I am. I realized that if a client can't see past my tattoos to appreciate my work, then they're not the right fit for me or WKUP.
Redefining Professionalism
My decision to stop hiding my tattoos wasn't just about personal comfort; it was a statement about redefining professionalism. At WKUP, we believe that true professionalism is about delivering exceptional work, being dedicated, and staying true to oneself. Our clients hire us for our creativity, our innovation, and our ability to break the mold. My tattoos are a part of my creativity. They don't define my work, but they do tell a story of who I am.
Finding the Right Clients
Since embracing my tattoos, I've found that I've attracted clients who appreciate authenticity and creativity. The clients who matter, who truly align with WKUP's values, see beyond the ink. We want to work with clients who value authenticity and innovation. If someone can't look past my tattoos, then they aren't the clients we want to work with.
A Message to All
My journey is a powerful reminder that we should never feel the need to hide who we are to make others comfortable. Authenticity attracts the right people and builds stronger, more genuine connections. To anyone who feels like they need to hide a part of themselves to fit in, I say: Be bold, be authentic. The right people will appreciate you for who you are. At WKUP, we celebrate individuality and creativity. We believe that true success comes from being genuine and embracing what makes us unique.
Join Us in Embracing Authenticity

If you're looking for a digital marketing team that values innovation, authenticity, and bold creativity, we're here for you. Let's make magic happen together, with no suit jackets required. Stay true, stay bold, and let's create something amazing!
Comments