Embracing Your Inner Mary Tyler Moore (and a Little Lucille Ball) at Work

Growing up, I spent countless hours watching Mary Tyler Moore and Lucille Ball on TV. Their shows were more than just entertainment; they were lessons in how to navigate life with humor and grace. Mary Tyler Moore’s wit on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Lucille Ball’s comedic genius on I Love Lucy taught me early on the power of personality. But in today’s workplace, there’s a delicate balance between letting your personality shine and being seen as the “personality hire.”

As much as we admire these iconic women for their humor, we also have to acknowledge the challenges they faced in being taken seriously. In the workplace, it can be easy for a strong personality to overshadow professional abilities, especially for women. The challenge is finding that sweet spot where your personality enhances your work rather than defines it.

Mary and Lucille both showed that it’s possible to bring your authentic self to work without sacrificing professionalism. Mary used her humor to connect with colleagues and diffuse tension, all while maintaining her credibility. Lucille’s playful spirit taught us that embracing our quirks can make us memorable—but she also knew when to step back and let her work speak for itself.

For anyone navigating this balance, it’s important to be mindful of how your personality is perceived. It’s not about hiding who you are but rather about using your unique traits to enhance your role, not overshadow it. Establish your expertise first, and let your personality be the icing on the cake.

As you navigate your career, channel your inner Mary Tyler Moore or Lucille Ball—find the balance between bringing joy to your work and ensuring your contributions are recognized. Remember, it’s not just about being liked; it’s about being respected. Success comes from knowing when to let your personality shine and when to let your work take center stage.