In a world of staged “reality,” AI-generated images, and photoshopped lives, it’s getting harder to tell what’s real. Surrounded by these fake ideals, many feel inadequate, even hopeless, chasing an illusion that doesn’t actually exist. But we don’t want what’s fake—we crave the real, the genuine, the authentic.
Think about it: how do you feel when someone seems phony? Whether in personal life or at work, most of us steer clear of insincere people. Yet, as leaders, it’s easy to fall into the trap of presenting a “perfect” version of ourselves. We think we have to look like we always know the answer, always have it together. But that façade can make us seem more like robots than relatable humans, distancing us from our teams when they need true, authentic leaders the most.
So, how do you ensure you’re the real deal? Here are three keys to staying authentic:
Live Your Values. Identify the values that define you. Are you committed to honesty, transparency, or dependability? Whatever they are, embody them in every action. Authenticity shines through consistency; people can quickly sense when there’s a disconnect between your words and actions. If integrity is your core value, live it, every single day.
Be a Good Person, First. Do you do the right thing even when it costs you, or when there’s no benefit to you? Truly good leaders prioritize doing right by others over self-interest. You can’t be an effective leader if you’re not a good person first. Your team needs to see that you’re in it for more than just personal gain.
Be Relatable. Don’t isolate yourself from your team. Show up in person, have casual chats, and let them see you as a fellow human. Studies show that people are lonelier than ever; as a leader, simple acts like asking someone about their weekend can go a long way in building morale and trust.
Our world desperately needs authentic leaders. So let’s rise to the occasion—be real, be consistent, and stay connected. Leadership is about inspiring hope and building trust, and it starts with being genuinely you.
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