To Thine Own Self Be True

What does it mean to be authentic? The Greek origin of the word is translated as "being self."

Some further derivatives evolved into "dominion, original."

I've combined these concepts into my own definition of Authentic Leadership: "having authority over one's self."  

When a leader has authority over self this manifests as:

*Responding over Reacting:

A reaction is typically knee-jerk, rooted in default programming that does not reflect the leader's true self.  Conversely, a response comes after a thoughtful pause, the brain is "online," and the heart leads.

*Curiosity over Projecting:

A leader who has authority over self begins with curiosity, they prefer questions over commands and observations over operatives.  A leader who superimposes their own beliefs onto people and circumstances is projecting limiting assumptions.  Seek first to understand (7 Habits of highly effective people).

*Detachment over Emotional Triggering:

Authenticity is the awareness that emotional triggers are gifts.  A triggered leader is attached to a belief that was created by some past event or circumstance.  When strong emotions occur, these leaders welcome the opportunity to increase self-awareness instead of remaining mired within their own patterns.

*Observing over Identification:

An authentic leader becomes a student of self, in constant observance of the intention behind all thoughts, words, and actions.  There is no judgment or guilt around this process, only objective study in an effort to gain deeper awareness.

What is the connection between having authority over one's self and being authentic?

Do you believe in unity? Uni means one: commUNITY refers to a connected group of people and UNIverse refers to the connection of all energy and matter.  

We are all bound together by a common experience: entering the world as a perfect spark of light.  And then the human condition formed us into separate "personalities."

Our true self, then, is the perfected likeness of the creator (God, light, higher power). So, the Greek root of "being self" really means "being God."

Authenticity is the lifelong pursuit of returning back to SELF, to wholeness.

As leaders, if we embark on this commitment to wholeness, authenticity is an organic side effect.

Some practical steps to discover your own authenticity.

In the early days of my leadership journey, I either conformed to my supervisor's beliefs or allowed my default programming to dictate my decisions.  Being a GenX'er who kept their head down and didn't question authority, I never took time to think for myself.

When I embarked on my internal healing journey, I began to unravel the beliefs that were obscuring my worldview. I became self-aware.   Embracing a season of being true to myself, I found my voice.

The deeper my self-awareness, the more effective my leadership.  Here are a few tips that helped me:

Conceptual Inventory

What got you here won’t get you there.

Where are you projecting what worked in the past onto a new present?

Value Inventory

When are you most energized?

Drop from head to heart and stake claim on YOUR values.

Vulnerability Inventory

When was the last time you openly admitted fault?

Are you okay with the reality that today the lines between personal and business are blurred?

Relationship Inventory

Do those around you know how you really feel about them?

Genuine interest in people elevates their performance and dedication to the mission.

Emotional Inventory

True leaders possess calm nervous systems.

Awareness of triggers leads to elevated self-awareness and model emotional intelligence.

It truly is a marathon, not a sprint.

To tie this all together, Authentic Leadership is a journey.  It is a commitment to utilizing self-awareness as a means to return to wholeness.  

To show up with a desire to "being Self" invites a radical liberation that is difficult to find these days.

Step into your power and elevate your organization in ways you never thought possible.

I pray that this message is clear and that it inspires you in some way.  I am continually reassessing my business; this newsletter included.  If you have any feedback, questions or comments, please email me!  [email protected].