Authentic Leadership: How to Lead with Self-Awareness

The Power of Authentic Leadership in Business

In a revealing interview, Steelcase CEO James Hackett shared one of his most valuable leadership lessons: the importance of avoiding a "prepackaged" leadership style. His observation highlights a critical truth about effective leadership - the most impactful leaders operate from a place of genuine self-awareness and authenticity.

Why Authentic Leadership Matters

Authentic leadership creates:
- Stronger team trust and loyalty
- More consistent decision-making
- Greater personal fulfillment
- Sustainable long-term results

The Challenges of Staying True to Yourself

While the concept sounds simple, maintaining authenticity presents real challenges:

Common leadership pressures that test authenticity:
- Organizational politics and "managing up" expectations
- Short-term performance demands
- Industry peer pressure ("everyone else is doing it")
- Crisis situations requiring quick decisions

As Hackett observed, the best leaders maintain "a sense of peace" and self-understanding even in difficult circumstances.

Developing Authentic Leadership Through Self-Reflection

A Simple Mindfulness Practice for Leaders

Try this powerful reflection exercise used in Institute for Mindful Leadership retreats:

1. Find a quiet space and allow your mind to settle
2. Ask yourself:
   • What are my core leadership principles?
   • What values guide me during challenges?
3. Notice what answers arise without judgment
4. Go deeper by setting aside initial responses
5. Reflect: When have my actions not aligned with these principles?

This practice helps uncover your authentic leadership style beneath surface-level responses.

The Long-Term Value of Authentic Leadership

While the business world often rewards short-term gains, authentic leadership creates lasting value:

• Builds sustainable organizational culture
• Fosters genuine employee engagement
• Leads to more ethical decision-making
• Creates personal resilience against burnout

As Hackett's experience shows, the most memorable leaders aren't imitations - they're individuals who've done the work to understand and lead from their authentic selves.