Be More Authentic: The Hidden Strength of Great Leaders

Today, I will show you how to become a more authentic leader.

Spoiler Alert - it is relatively easy.

In a world of copycats, conformists, and superficial success stories, showing up as the true you will set you apart.

By being more authentic, you'll foster a culture of trust, enhance team engagement, strengthen your personal brand, and boost overall performance.

You'll also feel a lot better as you let go of the psychological pressure to conform to society's norms and stand out in a sea of sameness. 

If you're struggling to be authentic, you're not alone. You don't need to feel ashamed or be hard on yourself. In our fast-paced, complex, and demanding world, it's easy to lose sight of what matters. Many of us feel obligated to conform and comply in order to get by. 

But remember this…

You can't achieve sustainable success by faking it. To win the long game, you must be yourself.

Last week, on the PBS Newshour, Geoff Bennett interviewed Lenny Kravitz as part of their Arts and Culture Series CANVAS. Kravitz discussed his journey as an artist and emphasized the importance of authenticity and individualism in his career.  

It is a must-watch for anyone who wants to live a more authentic life.

Click here to watch the video.

The conversation between Bennett and Kravitz was enlightening and inspiring. I was struck by a few key takeaways from the interview and realized how Kravitz is a model for authenticity.

Key Takeaways

1. Others Will Always Want You to Conform

In any environment, there's a tendency to push individuals toward conformity. This pressure can come from society, the workplace, or personal relationships.

The desire for harmony and the fear of standing out can lead individuals to suppress their unique traits. However, true leadership shines when one resists this push and remains true to one's values and beliefs. 

When Lenny Kravitz refused to conform to the expected norms of the music industry, he went against the norms and refused to comply with the pressure to fit a specific mold. This certainly must have pissed a few people off, but it was worth it because Kravitz went on to carve out a niche that was uniquely his own.

The Lesson For Leaders is that the pressure to conform and comply is everywhere, but resisting the urge is essential.

2. You Must Choose to Be Authentic 

Authenticity isn't something that happens accidentally; it's a conscious choice. 

Being authentic means rejecting the easier path for a more challenging one.  

Lenny Kravitz's career exemplifies this choice. Despite lucrative offers, he stuck to music that represented his true self. 

This decision may have been difficult in the short term, but it earned him respect and success on his terms. 

The Lesson for Leaders is that authenticity can be challenging. It requires us to take risks and make difficult choices.

3. Authenticity Produces Exponential Outcomes

Authenticity isn't just about being true to yourself. Authenticity is about unleashing potential. 

When you're authentic, you create an environment where others feel safe expressing their ideas and personalities. This can increase team creativity, innovation, and engagement. 

Lenny Kravitz's authentic approach to his music and life resonated with millions worldwide, resulting in a career that has spanned decades and influenced countless artists. What kind of outcomes would he have produced if he had taken the first record deal presented to him?

The Lesson For Leaders is that by fostering authenticity, you can drive better results, promote a more engaged team, and create a legacy of leadership.

4. If You Want to Be Authentic, Listen to Your Inner Voice

One core aspect of authenticity is listening to and trusting one's inner voice. This can be challenging in a world filled with noise and distractions, but it is a skill we should all learn to cultivate.

The inner voice is often quiet but can speak to us in many ways.

When Lenny noted that "there was always this feeling inside of me" he was talking about his inner voice. When he was considering record deals and about to say yes, he would "feel very uncomfortable, and shut down". He explained: "My body would not let me do it. And I said no each time."

This was my favorite part of Lenny Kravitz's interview. Hearing him describe what it was like to listen to that inner voice—that inner knowing that far too few of us listen to—was inspirational. Lenny Kravitz found his way to his most consequential achievements by listening to his inner voice.  

The Lesson For Leaders is that your inner voice is your most honest advisor and can guide you to make decisions that align with your true self. Leaders in tune with their inner voice can lead with conviction and authenticity.

5. The Best Leaders Are the Best Version of Themselves

The most impactful leaders present themselves as they are, not as they think they should be. They understand that authenticity inspires loyalty, trust, and admiration. 

This doesn't mean remaining inflexible but remaining true to your core values while adapting to new challenges and environments.

Lenny Kravitz has always presented himself authentically, defining his career and inspiring others to follow their own paths. 

The Lesson For Leaders is that by being the best version of yourself, you'll build your brand and encourage others to do the same

In closing

I want to encourage you to live and lead more authentically.  

As leaders who are expected to inspire others to do great work, modeling authenticity can set a powerful example for our teams.  

Remember, authentic leadership is not about being perfect. It is about being honest, vulnerable, and willing to take risks. 

Here's to being a more authentic and effective leader.

P.S. This is just a sneak peek into my conversations with clients inside my Subtle Shifts Coaching Program - a bespoke 1:1 experience designed to help leaders be more effective. If you want to learn more about it, schedule a call.