Authentic leaders are self-actualized individuals who are aware of their strengths, their limitations, and their emotions. They also show their real selves to their followers.They do not act one way in private and another in public; they don’t hide their mistakes or weaknesses out of fear of looking weak. They also realize that being self-actualized is an endless journey.

Self-Aware And Genuine

Authentic leaders are not afraid to show their emotions, their vulnerability and to connect with their employees. They understand it doesn’t make them “soft” and that communicating in a direct but empathetic manner is critical to successful outcomes.

Leading With Heart And Mind

Authentic leaders are able to put the mission and the goals of the organization ahead of their own self-interest. They do the job in pursuit of results.

Mission-Driven And Goal Oriented

Many leaders try to be one way at work, while their “true” personality emerges outside of work. They think that leadership is an act.These leaders are often confused when their employees don’t trust or like them, and can’t really wait to work elsewhere.

Lack Of Authenticity

Authentic leaders focus on the long term. They realize that nurturing individuals and a company requires hard work and patience, but the approach pays large dividends over time.

Focusing On The Long-Term. 

What is authentic leadership? It continues to surprise me how many leaders attempt to be one way at work, while their "true" personality emerges outside of work. Once a CEO reminded me, "Leadership is acting." And it surprises me when these same leaders seem shocked or confused when their employees don't [...]

Focusing On The Long-Term.

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