3 Reasons Why Leaders Need to Be Authentic

It may seem obvious. Great leaders should also be authentic leaders.

But what exactly does it mean to be authentic and why does it matter?

In general, being an authentic leader means being real to who we are and what we believe.

We don't change with the wind. We don't pretend to be who we're not. There are many reasons why this matters. Let's look at 3 of them.

1. We need to embrace our gifts so we can serve others at the highest levels. I am a firm believer that we are each created with special gifts - that we are in this time and place with our gifts because we are the best person to fill that space. If we are authentic to who we are, we are exploring our gifts and growing in them. We are serving others at our highest abilities. And embracing our gifts brings deeper fulfillment to our lives.
2. Being authentic builds trust. Meaning what we say and standing by it is critical for trust to grow. Relationships built on trust are deeper and last longer. Authenticity generates a mutual respect that encourages both parties to do more and stretch more. Both parties win while producing better results for those they serve.
3. Authenticity opens us up to celebrating the gifts of others. Realizing that we are not wired to be great at everything removes blinders that may cause us to miss opportunities. We are free to welcome the gifts of others and recognize that their gifts complement ours. (Completion rather than competition.) Building strong teams filled with gifts that work together brings energy, fun, and better results.

Great leadership and authenticity go together.

Honesty, truthfulness, openness, and even vulnerability will help leaders attract others who have those same traits. We may be tempted by culture, peer pressure, or our own fears of inadequacy to hide who we are.

To shine like the leaders we are meant to be, we need to celebrate our unique gifts and support others in letting their gifts shine too!