Authentic Leaders Are…

Leadership is more important than ever in today's work world. With the challenges we face as a society, and as businesses, it is essential that we have leaders who are authentic and can inspire others to do their best work. But what is authentic leadership?

In my work with executives and their teams, I often begin with a list of five attributes associated with authentic leadership. These attributes are designed to begin a conversation that distinguishes authentic leadership from other types of leadership. It also facilitates executive team involvement in committing to acting from humanistic values and championing innovation and progress.

While your conversation starters may differ from mine, I hope this list of five attributes helps distinguish authentic leadership from other practices. Its use creates environments where individuals do their best work and organizations thrive.

Authentic leaders know themselves well.

Authentic leaders are self-aware. They know their strengths and weaknesses and constantly work to improve themselves. They are always learning and growing, and they are open to feedback. They deeply understand their values, strengths, weaknesses, and drivers. This self-awareness allows them to be authentic in their interactions with others. They are genuine and honest in their interactions with others.

authentic leaders stay true to their values and principles.

Authentic leaders are those who stay true to their values and principles. They are authentic in their dealings with others and transparent in their communication. They are also inspiring and motivating because they believe in what they are doing. And finally, authentic leaders are those who take responsibility for their actions and the consequences that result. They are authentic in their words and actions and inspire others to do the same. Authentic leaders build trust and respect and create a positive environment where people can flourish.

Authentic leaders listen to others.

As Steve Covey observed, they seek first to understand then to be understood and make decisions based on what is best for the team rather than what is best for themselves. They also have a clear vision and can articulate it in a way that motivates others to action. Authentic leadership coaching can help executives develop these qualities. Leaders who are authentic can listen to others, understand different points of view, and make decisions based on what is best for the team. Leaders who are authentic create an environment where people feel valued and respected. They can also have difficult conversations when needed and give helpful, not hurtful, feedback.

Authentic leaders act with integrity and are honest with themselves and others.

Authentic leaders build trust by being transparent, reliable, and genuine in their words and actions. They are compassionate and care about others. They lead with integrity, which means they live their values and beliefs. Authentic leaders are lifelong learners who continue to grow and develop themselves to be the best possible leaders. They inspire others to be their best selves and work to create positive communities that foster innovation.

Authentic Leaders Model the Way

They don't ask their team to do anything they wouldn't do themselves. Leaders who are authentic empower their team members to be their best selves. When the going gets tough, authentic leaders stand by their team. They show compassion and empathy and provide support when it's needed most. Authentic leadership is about being your best self - for yourself and for your team. It's a style of leadership that inspires others to be their best selves, too.

Conclusion

The five authentic leadership attributes listed above are just a starting point for authentic leadership. If you want to be an authentic leader, start by being self-aware and true to your values. Then, act with integrity and listen to others. Finally, lead by example. Doing these things will inspire others to be their best selves and create a positive community that fosters innovation.

Authentic leadership is a leadership style needed in today's ever-changing world. With so many challenges and opportunities, we need authentic leaders who can inspire us to be our best selves. Thanks for reading! I hope this article has inspired you to think about authentic leadership and how it can benefit you and your team.