Embracing Authenticity as a Strength

Post #4: The Power of Authenticity: Lessons from the Battlefield to the Boardroom I've learned many valuable lessons throughout my life, notably during my time in the U.S. Army. Among these lessons, one of the most impactful ones is the power and importance of authenticity, particularly in leadership roles. The essence of authenticity in leadership is about being true to one's values and principles, maintaining transparency, and holding oneself accountable even in the face of adversity. In the military, these characteristics not only define you as a leader but also deeply impact the morale and resilience of the team. It was my genuine, instinctive reaction to protect my team that guided me during a critical incident involving a suicide bomber. In the corporate world, authenticity plays a similarly significant role. The essence of authentic leadership is not just about strategic decision-making, but also about forging connections on a human level. This approach has been a cornerstone in my journey as an executive, helping to establish trust, encourage open communication, and build a strong team culture. Authentic leaders aren't just guiding their teams with strategic decisions but are also building connections on a human level. This human-centric approach has been pivotal in my journey as an executive, where being forthright about corporate goals (when you know them), transparent in decision-making, and genuine in my interactions has helped foster a cohesive, committed team. Moreover, embracing authenticity also means recognizing and acknowledging our vulnerabilities. Post my military service, I faced a challenging recovery period, grappling with physical limitations and emotional trauma. Accepting and being open about these struggles was integral to my healing and personal growth. This experience taught me that acknowledging our weaknesses doesn't diminish us as leaders—it makes us human and relatable. It allows teams to see that we are not infallible, fostering an environment of empathy and mutual support, essential in both combat and corporate scenarios. So, to all the leaders out there—in the military, in the boardroom, or elsewhere—I urge you to embrace and practice authenticity. Be true to your values, uphold integrity, and allow your human side to show. It is through authenticity that we can forge true connections, cultivate a culture of trust, and lead effectively. Remember, leadership is not about perfection—it's about being genuine, being human, and making a difference. Now, I'd love to hear from you. How do you practice authenticity in your leadership? And how has it shaped your team's dynamics and success? #Leadership #Authenticity #Courage #Management #Teamwork

𝙍𝙚𝙙𝙚𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥: 𝘼 𝙋𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙅𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮   My two-decade-long career journey, spanning the corporate world, consulting, and recently a tech startup, has significantly shaped my understanding of effective leadership. This journey has been a process of both unlearning and reaffirming, leading me to a redefined vision of what successful leadership entails.   𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙀𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙈𝙮 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥 𝙋𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙤𝙥𝙝𝙮: My early career was heavily influenced by traditional corporate practices and the consulting world.    That doesn’t work in the dynamic environment of a tech startup, prompting a radical shift in my approach.    I've moved away from the rigid adherence to employee engagement scorecards or the pressure to respond rapidly in all situations. Fitting into a conventional leadership template to please superiors and coworkers is less impactful than I previously believed.    𝙐𝙣𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙍𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜: 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙆𝙚𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙘 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥 The journey involved unlearning certain traits and embracing new ones.    I realized the importance of being human and original: focusing on balance rather than speed; influence rather than pleasing; and listening rather than always trying to be the most intelligent voice in the room.    Leadership, I learned, is more about continual learning and investing in others' success than showcasing one's own intelligence. It's about building lasting relationships that transcend roles and organizations, not just excelling in one’s job.   𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙁𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙋𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙈𝙮 𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥 𝘼𝙥𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙖𝙘𝙝: As I look forward to 2024 and beyond, I am committed to focusing on five key characteristics that form the foundational layer of my leadership pyramid:   ➤ Authenticity: This is about being genuine, honest, and true to one's values and beliefs. Authentic leaders inspire trust and create an atmosphere of openness and honesty in their teams.   ➤ Investment in Teams: Investing time, resources, and genuine effort in team development is crucial. It's about nurturing a culture where every member feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.   ➤ Customer Empathy: Understanding and empathizing with customers is essential. It's not just about meeting their needs but also about connecting with them on a deeper level to create lasting relationships.   ➤ Humility: A humble approach to leadership involves acknowledging one's limitations, being open to feedback, and valuing others' contributions.   ➤ Self-Awareness: This involves understanding one's strengths and weaknesses and being mindful of how one's actions and decisions impact others and the organization.   ----   Leadership, to me, is a continuous process of growth, learning, and adaptation. These principles are not just the foundation of successful leadership; they are the core of a fulfilling and impactful career.

Our team starts off every week with a Monday team meeting where the first thing we do is talk about our failures from the previous week... What I discovered a long time ago is that if you want to be a successful and authentic leader, you can't hide behind the varnish of "perfection." The most successful leaders -- those who inspire their people to greatness -- have all figured out that showing up honestly and authentically is a superpower that helps them build deep trust across their teams. All too often I encounter senior-level people who think that they can't be themselves in front of their people. That they can't ever show weakness and have to hide their failures. Here's the thing...you're not hiding it. Your people see you for who you really are, whether you realize it or not. When you try to hide your flaws or failures, they see that too. And that's where trust is lost. Here are three simple things you can start doing right now to show up more authentically and inspire greater trust with your team: 1. Be the first to admit when you fail. Whether in the big things or the small things, own your crap, and tell your people when you mess up. 2. When one of your people comes to you (probably in fear) to admit where they've failed, respond in humility and with compassion. I've also found that taking that opportunity to tell them about one of your previous failures helps to make them feel better in the moment and reminds them that everyone fails. 3. Admit when you don't know something, and encourage others to help you learn and grow by sharing their wisdom with you.

Nobody lies like a leader Ask most leaders how they are doing or how their companies are going and you’ll get the same answers: Fine Great Amazing Crushing it Never better Living the dream Up and to the right More often than not, it’s a lie. In reality, many leaders feel: Ready to give up Overwhelmed Like a fraud Burned out Uncertain Anxious Lonely The truth is, leadership is incredibly difficult. If you’re struggling as a leader right now, one this is clear: you are not alone. Behind the scenes, many of us battle feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, and burnout. Ever felt like you're putting on a show, ready to say, "I hate it. I'm miserable. I can't do it anymore"? Why the act? As leaders, we feel the pressure to showcase perpetual success, as if we always have the right answers and an unwavering positive outlook. The fear of being rejected, losing respect, or being seen as an imposter often silences our truth. But here's the reality check: We all struggle. The challenges make us human, relatable, and authentic. They're the threads that weave the fabric of our leadership journey. So, how do you navigate this delicate balance? Embrace Imperfection: Acknowledge that it's okay not to have all the answers. Share your struggles authentically; it's through imperfections that genuine connections are formed. I know I’m not perfect, but I have a team around me, who complement my weaknesses. Set Boundaries: Not everything is meant for public consumption. Share your journey wisely, keeping some aspects private. You can be vulnerable and wise at the same time. Choose Your Circle: Select individuals you trust and who understand the challenges. Surround yourself with a support system that uplifts and empathizes. For me, it’s my YPO forum and my Life Group. An invaluable lesson I learned from Craig Groeschel: "People may admire you for your strengths, but they connect with you through your weaknesses." Let's break the mold, be authentic, and build meaningful connections beyond the surface.

The Power of Authenticity in Leadership: Inspiring Through Human-ness and Humility As part of leadership, I recently undertook a project that delved into inspiration and motivation. I had the privilege of interviewing remarkable individuals, seeking to understand what fuels their motivation. Amidst a myriad of responses, one answer intrigued me - the human-ness of leaders inspired people. One individual shared a story that stood out to me. A former leader would kick off weekly meetings with a glimpse into her state of mind. She'd share frustration, moments of being overwhelmed, sheer jubilation, or other feelings with the team. This vulnerability showcased her humanity, resonating deeply with her team. Another related quality that surfaced in my interviews was humility. A leader, when asked about their superpower, humbly declared having none. Instead, they said that they can help others unlock their superpowers. Due to this humility, people were ready to run through a brick wall for this exceptional leader. The responses of these individuals taught me that authenticity breeds inspiration. When we embrace our vulnerabilities, display genuine transparency, and lead with humility, we foster connections that transcend mere professional relationships. Let's remember, true leadership isn't found in grand gestures, but in the authenticity of our humanity. Have you experienced the transformative power of authentic leadership?  #InspiringLeadership #LeadershipJourney

When I first became a leader, I believed I had to have all the answers. I thought showing vulnerability would undermine my authority. I've made plenty of mistakes as a leader, but I remember one in particular during a critical project, where I made a significant mistake that set our team back. Instead of covering it up or deflecting blame, I chose to be honest, admitted my error, and my plan to correct it. And guess what? The team rallied around me, offering support and even better solutions than I had imagined. We ended up with a better outcome than we would have originally and cultivated more trust and resilience in the team along the way. 🌟 Leadership isn't about being invincible or having all the answers; it's about being human. 🌟 Embracing vulnerability as a leader can be daunting, but it’s a game-changer. Here’s why: 🌟 Trust: When leaders are transparent about their own challenges and uncertainties, it creates a culture of trust. Teams feel safer to express their own ideas and concerns without fear of judgment. 🌟 Innovation: Vulnerability opens the door to new perspectives. When team members see their leaders willing to take risks and admit mistakes, it fosters an environment where creativity and innovation can flourish. 🌟 Resilience: Leaders who demonstrate vulnerability show that setbacks are part of the journey. This builds a resilient team that can adapt and thrive in the face of challenges. 🔹 To my fellow leaders: Showing up with authentic vulnerability is not a weakness—it’s a strength. It’s a call to build deeper connections, foster a more innovative mindset, and create a culture of resilience. Your team doesn’t need a perfect leader; they need a genuine one. Let’s lead with heart and humanity. 💙 Share your experiences and join the conversation on how vulnerability has impacted your leadership journey! #leadership #vulnerability #trust #innovation #resilience #authenticity #genuine #teambuilding #humanity #humancentricleadership #thrivingleadership #thrivenotsurvive #thrivetogether #thrivemindcollaborative

🚀 Reflecting on 3 incredible years as Co-Founder at LUDEX, Amelia Earhart's words resonate profoundly and have often been a balm for my soul: "The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. The fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do…and the procedure, the process is its own reward." This quote encapsulates the essence of my entrepreneurial journey, a journey defined by decisive action, unwavering tenacity, and a fearless pursuit of our vision. The journey has included a steady seasoning of mistakes, miscalculations, and learnings along the way. Here are some leadership lessons drawn so far: 1️⃣ **Embrace Vulnerability, Illuminate the Path:** 🤝 In the spirit of Amelia Earhart's wisdom, acknowledge that vulnerability is not a weakness but a steady diet for growth. As a female leader navigating a male-dominated industry, boldly owning the decisions I made and their consequences was an early lesson for me and has been key to my success. Embracing vulnerability becomes a powerful tool for connection and leadership in a landscape where authenticity can be a beacon. In a world where being a female leader in tech is still breaking barriers, the ability to lead with vulnerability opens doors for meaningful dialogue and understanding. It's about showcasing that vulnerability isn't a liability but a strength, a force that breaks down stereotypes and fosters an environment of inclusion. 2️⃣ **Embrace Fear, Don't Be Intimidated:** 💪 Fear, according to Earhart, is a mere paper tiger. It's a reminder that fear is a construct we can overcome. In the startup world, fear is natural, and has been a constant companion, but it's our response that defines our journey. As we decide to act, fear transforms into fuel, propelling us forward if we allow it. The process of overcoming fear, as Earhart suggests, is its own reward—a reward found in growth, resilience, and grit. 🚀 3️⃣ **Fail Quickly and Normalize Mistakes:** 💡 The decision to act often involves the courage to fail quickly, learning swiftly from the experience. Normalizing mistakes within Ludex's culture transforms them from fearsome obstacles to opportunities for innovation. As Earhart eloquently notes, "the procedure, the process is its own reward." The iterative process of learning and adapting becomes a rewarding journey in itself, shaping Ludex's path to success. 🏆 Grateful for the LUDEX team and the lessons learned. Here's to many more years of tenacity, fearless action, and the rewards that come from shaping our own destiny! 👩💻👨💼 #LeadershipJourney #womanfounder #TechStartup #AmeliaEarhartWisdom #LudexAdventure #TechInclusion #thehobby #appdevelopment

Vulnerability isn't just a buzzword; it's the cornerstone of authentic leadership. At times, we might even feel like being vulnerable is a weakness. But it's embodying that vulnerability in our actions that truly transforms us into the leaders our organization craves. Nurturing connection and trust within our teams is a vital strength. By showing up and revealing our authentic selves, we set the stage for genuine relationships and meaningful collaboration. And you already know that leadership is so much more than delegating tasks and meeting deadlines; it's also about creating a culture of connection and shared purpose. Leading by example, showing your team that they matter beyond their assignments, and creating a bond of trust starts with you. Save this post for when you need a bit of encouragement! — Hi, I'm thrilled to connect with you here! If we haven't met, I'm DeDe, a former military officer with over 25 years experience in the U.S. Air Force leading diverse teams and advising our nation's top military officials. In today's fast-paced world, where change is constant, I can tell you with absolute certainty -- leaders who deeply understand our human essence will hold the greatest advantage going forward. Recognizing and leveraging the human side of leadership isn't just beneficial—it's absolutely essential. My mission is to guide you through this landscape, making leadership not just effective but easier and more impactful. 🔔 Curious to learn more? Hit the bell in my profile. ✅ Follow for insights on leading with humanity at the forefront. Leading Authorities, Inc. #vulnerabilityisstrength #purposeful #realization #truths #willingness

Living Authentically and Transparent... The journey towards living authentically, underscores the importance of aligning your actions with your core values. For me personally, those are honesty, integrity, transparency, and loyalty! "Every time we are true to ourselves, we allow our authenticity to shine forth." ~ Unknown In a world where the pressures of leadership and societal expectations often cloud our true selves, this serves as a reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the power of genuine connections. It challenges leaders to dismantle the facade of perfection, to embrace their imperfections, and to lead with their hearts (Men, please listen to this)! The road to authenticity is paved with daily choices that reflect our true selves: ~ Start your day with a commitment to be transparent in your interactions. ~ Share your challenges and successes with your team, fostering a culture of openness. ~ Make decisions that are in harmony with your core values, even when it's difficult. ~ Recognize the strength in vulnerability and encourage others to do the same. Call to Action: Today, let's take a tangible step towards authenticity. Whether it's acknowledging an oversight, sharing a personal lesson learned, or simply listening with an open heart, each action brings us closer to the leaders we aspire to be. ~~~~~~~~~~ P.S.How are you embracing authenticity and transparency in your leadership and life? Share your stories and insights, and let's inspire each other to lead with authenticity. Remember, authenticity isn't just about being true to ourselves; it's about creating a space where others feel empowered to do the same. Let's lead by example, one authentic step at a time. Gratitude And Love, Shawn  Follow ➡ #experienceevangelist & #corporatepastor

As I reflect on my journey in leadership, I'm compelled to share this topic that’s close to my heart. It all started with a realization: true leadership isn't just about titles or authority; it's about authenticity and connection. Here are 6 tips that have shaped my path and might just illuminate yours: 1️⃣ Embrace Vulnerability: Authentic leaders aren't afraid to show vulnerability. It fosters trust and opens doors for genuine connections. 2️⃣ Lead with Empathy: Understand your team members beyond their roles. Empathy fuels collaboration and cultivates a supportive environment. 3️⃣ Communicate Transparently: Honest and transparent communication builds credibility and ensures everyone is on the same page. 4️⃣ Foster a Growth Mindset: Encourage continuous learning and development. A growth mindset fuels innovation and resilience. 5️⃣ Celebrate Diversity: Embrace diversity of thought, background, and experience. It enriches perspectives and drives creativity. 6️⃣ Lead by Example: Actions speak louder than words. Model the behavior you want to see in others, inspiring them to reach new heights. Join me in the journey of authentic leadership, where impact transcends titles and relationships thrive. Together, let's shape a future where leadership is synonymous with authenticity and empathy. #Leadershiptopix #Leadership #AuthenticLeadership #EmpathyInAction #LeadershipJourney #VulnerabilityMatters #GrowthMindset #InclusiveLeadership