Unleashing Your Authentic Leadership: Embracing Your SWAGG

Let’s get real for a moment. Leadership today isn’t just about making decisions and guiding teams—it’s about showing up as the truest version of yourself. Authenticity in leadership means aligning your internal values with how you show up every day. And when you do that? You build trust, inspire your team, and create a space where everyone feels like they belong. But how do you ensure your leadership style reflects who you really are? That’s where my SWAGG inventory comes in.

What Is Authentic Leadership?

At its heart, authentic leadership is about being real—plain and simple. The Center for Creative Leadership (CCL) puts it like this: “Authenticity is the healthy alignment between internal values and beliefs and external behavior.” When what you believe matches what you do, you build trust, and trust is the bedrock of every great relationship—whether it’s with your team or your organization.

The Importance of Showing Up Authentically:

Let me tell you something—organizations thrive when their leaders are authentic. When you bring your whole, unapologetic self to work, you create a culture where everyone feels safe to do the same. And when that happens? Magic. Authentic leadership isn’t just a personal journey; it’s the key to building engaged, motivated, and downright unstoppable teams.

Connecting Authentic Leadership with SWAGG:

So, how do you tap into that authenticity? Let’s talk about SWAGG—my go-to inventory for helping leaders show up as their best selves. SWAGG stands for Successes, Wisdom, Activities that put you into flow, Gifts, and Growth edges. Let’s break it down:

• Successes: Celebrate your wins, big and small. Every success is a stepping stone that’s brought you to where you are today. Recognize them, and let them fuel your journey forward.
• Wisdom: You’ve been through some things. You’ve learned. And that wisdom? It’s gold. Use it to guide your decisions and navigate the challenges that come your way with grace and confidence.
• Activities that Put You into Flow: You know those moments when you’re so deep in the zone that time flies? Yeah, those are the activities that put you into flow. Make time for them—they keep you energized and at your best.
• Gifts: Own your talents. You’ve got unique gifts that no one else has. Recognize them, harness them, and let them shine through in your leadership.
• Growth Edges: We all have areas where we need to grow. Don’t shy away from them—embrace them. Your growth edges are opportunities to evolve and become an even more powerful leader.

How to Show Up as an Authentic Leader:

1. Rethink Your Leadership Image: Don’t box yourself into what you think a leader should look like. Show up as YOU. Authenticity starts when you stop pretending and start living your truth.
2. Increase Self-Awareness: Take a good look in the mirror. Understand your values, strengths, and yes, your weaknesses. When you know yourself, you can lead from a place of authenticity.
3. Evaluate and Align: Keep checking in with yourself. Are your actions lining up with your values? Set goals that reflect who you are and what you stand for, and stick to them.
4. Take Action: Don’t just talk about it—be about it. Make changes, no matter how small, that align your behavior with your values. And remember, real change doesn’t happen overnight, so be patient with yourself.
5. Communicate Effectively: Let your voice be heard! Authentic communication builds trust and deepens connections. Tell your story, share your vision, and always speak from the heart.

Authentic leadership isn’t just about being yourself—it’s about being the best version of yourself, the version that reflects your deepest values and beliefs. By embracing the SWAGG inventory, you can enhance your authenticity, build unshakeable trust with your team, and lead with confidence and purpose. Remember, the most impactful leaders are those who show up fully, leading with both heart and mind. So, go on—own your SWAGG and watch the magic happen.