In this article, I will explore my capacity for greater authenticity. The first step to reflecting on my capacity for a more authentic form of leadership is to understand the definition and components of authentic leadership.
There are multiple definitions of authentic leadership, each written from a different viewpoint with a different emphasis. Northhouse describes two approaches to authentic leadership, a practical approach, and a theoretical approach. The practical approach developed by Bill George focuses on the characteristics of authentic leaders. George found that “authentic leaders have a genuine desire to serve others, they know themselves and they feel free to lead from their core values” (Northhouse, 2016, p. 197).
According to George, “the five basic characteristics of authentic leaders are
1. They understand their purpose.
2. They have strong values about the right thing to do.
3. They establish trusting relationships with others.
4. They demonstrate self-discipline and act on their values.
5. They are passionate about their mission (act from their heart).
Based on the theoretical approach authentic leadership has been defined by several researchers ( including Walumbwa, Avolio, Gardner, Wernsing & Peterson, 2008) as “A pattern of the leader behavior that draws upon and promotes both positive psychological capacities and a positive ethical climate, to foster greater self-awareness, internalized moral perspective, balanced processing of information, and relational transparency on the part of leaders working with followers, fostering positive self-development” (Northhouse, 2016, p. 201).
The four key components of the theoretical approach are
1. Self-awareness, a process in which individuals understand themselves this is achieved through reflecting on one’s core values, identity, emotions, motives, and goals.
2. Internalized moral perspective, a self-regulatory process using internal moral standards and values to guide behavior.
3. Balanced processing, the ability to analyze Information objectively and explore other people’s opinions before making a decision.
4. Relational transparency, refers to being open and honest in presenting one’s true self to others.
Other factors influence authentic leadership such as “positive psychological capacity, moral reasoning, and critical life events” (Northhouse, 2016, p. 203). The four key positive psychological qualities are confidence, hope, optimism, and resilience. Moral reasoning is the ability to make ethical decisions about issues of right or wrong.
In the process of reflecting on my qualities as a leader, I realize that I have a decent level of self-awareness which I develop through independent reflection as well as receiving regular coaching to evoke awareness and cultivate growth. Every day I strive to use internal moral standards, (morals, values, and principles) to guide my behavior (internalized moral perspective). My ability to analyze information objectively and capacity for comprehensive/generous listening has improved over the years and will always be a work in progress. I think my strongest point is my aptitude for relational transparency, I take pride in presenting my true self to others.
I would love to hear your key takeaway from this article! What is your most prominent leadership quality?
References
Northhouse, P. G. (2016). Leadership: Theory and Practice (7th ed.). Los Angeles: SAGE Publications.
