Authenticity Matters in Leadership

Being authentic doesn’t just make you more relatable—it makes you more trustworthy, influential, and effective. When you lead as yourself, you set a powerful example for your team. You show them that it’s okay to bring their full selves to work. And in doing so, you create an environment where others feel empowered to speak up, share ideas, and lead confidently.
But authenticity isn’t just about being real. It’s about being strategic in how you present yourself and ensuring that your true voice comes across in every interaction.
 
As a leader you are always being watched. Weather you are leading a group in business, sports or your family people will notice if your actions match your words. You will loose credibility, trust and effectiveness much faster than you can gain it if your words and actions do not match. 
 
As a C6 quadriplegic confined to a wheelchair and a leader of teams ranging from 12 to 60 sales professionals I had to make sure my actions measured up to my words of philosophy of being successful. Over a 25 year career I could not take or accept any leeway or excuses for less than 100% execution of what I expected from others. I also knew that being confined to a wheelchair upper management as well as my peers were watching to see if I could authentically do the job based on my expectations. 
 
Don’t let anything change who you authentically are. Be you. Be unapologetically you. 
 
Here Are Some Ways You Can Show Up Authentically:
 

1. Acknowledge the Stories You’ve Been Told Start by identifying the limiting beliefs or stories you’re carrying with you. Were you told to “tone it down” early in your career? Were you advised to speak less or act differently? Recognizing these influences is the first step to releasing them.

 

1. Embrace Your Unique Voice Stop trying to conform to what others expect of you. Instead, embrace what makes you you. Whether it’s your tone of voice, your body language, or the way you express ideas—lean into it. Authentic leaders don’t fit molds—they break them.

 

1. Be Clear and Consistent in Your Message Authenticity doesn’t mean you say whatever comes to mind. Be thoughtful about your message and consistent in how you present yourself. Whether you’re leading a meeting, giving a presentation, or speaking in front of an audience, clarity and consistency build trust.

 

1. Use Body Language that Matches Your Words Body language is key. If you’re holding back, your body will give you away. Practice open, confident gestures that align with your message. Your non-verbal communication should reinforce your words, not contradict them.

 

1. Get Comfortable with Vulnerability Being authentic often means being vulnerable. It’s okay to admit mistakes, show emotion, or share personal stories. This doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human and relatable. Remember, leadership is about connection, and connection comes from being real.

 

1. Remember: Your Team Can Tell Whether you realize it or not, your team knows when you’re not fully present or being yourself. If you’re hiding behind a mask, they feel it. Show up as the real you, and you’ll inspire others to do the same.

 
Putting it Into Practice
The next time you’re on stage, in a meeting, or in front of the camera, remind yourself: there’s only one YOU. And the world needs that version of you, not the filtered, toned-down, or second-guessed version.
 
Your authenticity is what will build trust, inspire your team, and create lasting influence. The more you practice showing up as your true self, the stronger your leadership will become. So, whether you’re giving a presentation or leading your team through a challenge, remember: be YOU, and watch the impact you create.

​My goal is to empower, inspire and transform you to create confident, happy purposeful individuals. Please check out my inspiring blog about Leadership - social media - Grit - Life Tips. https://www.brianpswift.com/blog You can also enjoy me AKA The Quadfather on Instagram   https://www.instagram.com/thee__quadfather/  and subscribe to my You Tube channel the Quadfather get fit while you sit. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwFDDydzb7Q_8CTyEnvEvrQ   My superpower is driving human performance by inspiring transformation of people’s mindset. I use it to create confident, happy purposeful individuals.
 
 
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