Curiosity #5 Authenticity in Leadership

🎤 Quotable quotes: "I suppose the best brand is being yourself." Higgins

📰 Let's start with this week's leadership musings by Marnie Stockman & Nick Coniglio

Fake it 'til you make it ?  It might be time to rethink this approach.

In talking to leaders across various fields, one recurring theme we hear is the pressure to have all the answers. This isn’t exclusive to CEOs or executives; it’s a feeling shared by parents, teachers, and anyone tasked with leading others.

Parents, for example, often feel the weight of answering every one of their children’s questions, hoping to set the right example or provide the guidance they never had. Teachers, too, feel the pressure to have the “right” responses, with students turning to them daily for knowledge and advice. And in the workplace, business leaders can feel like they’re expected to be bearer of all wisdom, always ready to solve every problem or provide the perfect direction.

Oklahoma… here’s the truth: nobody has all the answers. This expectation, this “curated brand” of knowing it all, is simply a false premise that can erode our sense of authenticity and connection. When we feel pressured to portray a version of ourselves that always has it together, we risk creating distance from those we’re trying to lead.

In fact, embracing vulnerability by admitting we don’t have every answer can be incredibly powerful. It’s okay to say, “I’m not sure, but let’s find out together.” Authenticity—whether with your children, students, or employees—builds trust, encourages collaboration, and creates a stronger foundation for genuine connection. Being yourself, in all your strengths and imperfections, lets those you lead feel safe to do the same. And that, ultimately, is the essence of impactful leadership.

Why Authenticity is Your Best Brand

In Ted Lasso, there’s a powerful moment when Ted, known for his unwavering positivity, hides his struggle with panic attacks from his team. When the press eventually reveals his secret, Ted has no choice but to address it. Instead of defending himself, he approaches the team with humility and empathy, openly acknowledging his challenges and apologizing for not trusting them with the truth sooner. In doing so, he not only rebuilds trust but strengthens the bond between himself and his team.

In a world that can feel saturated with brand “ideals,” authenticity is more than refreshing; it’s powerful. A truly authentic leader gives others permission to do the same, building an environment of trust and creativity. Being yourself means embracing your real values and strengths, and importantly, your imperfections. This kind of vulnerability fosters loyalty, as people naturally feel more aligned with those who are genuine.

The Pitfalls of a “Curated” Brand

Too often, leaders fall into the trap of presenting a “curated” brand to be liked or respected. While it might seem safe, it’s exhausting and, ultimately, untrustworthy. Trying to uphold an image that isn’t true to who we are can create a constant state of stress and anxiety, as we’re forced to live up to a version of ourselves that doesn’t feel authentic. Over time, this carefully crafted image can create a disconnect, as people begin to sense the difference between who we are and the person we’re projecting. The cost of this disconnect isn’t just external; it’s internal as well, draining our energy and keeping us from showing up fully.

Actionable Steps to Be Authentically You

• Embrace Your Strengths and Weaknesses: You don’t need to be flawless to lead. In fact, embracing your weaknesses can deepen your credibility. Share your journey with your team, and make authenticity the foundation of your leadership.
• Follow an “Authenticity Checklist”: Before important decisions or conversations, ask yourself, “Am I showing up as myself?” or “Is this a choice that reflects what I believe in?” Small reminders like these help you check in with your intentions and keep authenticity at the forefront. Check out this authenticity checklist for individuals, teams or companies.

Click image above to download The Authenticity Checklists

In Lead It Like Lasso, we often reflect on the importance of true character. Authenticity is at the heart of this approach, where being genuine is not just encouraged but essential. The best leaders are those who embrace their own stories—flaws and all—and inspire others to do the same. Embrace your quirks, your vision, and your story; they’re the core of what makes you an extraordinary leader. Or as Leslie Higgins might say: I suppose your best brand is being yourself.

More leadership musings

As you step forward this week, remember: the path to impactful leadership starts with knowing and embracing yourself. Authenticity isn’t just a trend; it’s your greatest asset.

🍪 Biscuits with the Boss: If you could bring back one thing from your childhood (a toy, a tradition, a TV show), what would it be?

Nostalgia tends to bring out people’s true selves, reminding them of simpler times before they felt pressured to present a certain image. What a great way to a great conversation and stronger connection!

🏅Whistle. Whistle.: As much as Roy Kent loves a good cup of tea :) he would still say:

If you’re trying to be everyone’s cup of tea, stop. You’re not meant to blend in like wallpaper. People respect a person or leader who has a backbone, not one who shifts like the wind. So, stop trying to smooth out every rough edge. Own who you are. People can tell when you’re faking it—and trust me, they don’t like it. Be real, even if it means ruffling a few feathers. That’s how real respect is built.

📚Beard’s collection: Recommended books and articles

📖 Cashman, Kevin. Leadership from the Inside Out. Berrett-Koehler Publishers, 2017.

Kevin Cashman’s Leadership from the Inside Out focuses on personal growth as the foundation of authentic leadership. This book encourages leaders to explore their inner values and purpose, emphasizing that effective leadership starts with self-awareness and genuine connection with others.

📖 Scott, Kim. Radical Candor. St. Martin's Press, 2017.

Radical Candor is essential for leaders striving to balance empathy with tough conversations. Kim Scott teaches how to care personally while challenging directly, helping leaders foster genuine, productive relationships in their organizations. You know Roy Kent would have this book ;)

📖 Brown, Brené. The Gifts of Imperfection. Hazelden Publishing, 2010.

In The Gifts of Imperfection, Brené Brown encourages readers to embrace their imperfections as unique strengths. This book offers practical steps for cultivating self-worth and belonging, essential for anyone seeking to lead with authenticity. Keeley might share her copy with Sam and Ted.

🌎 This week in Here - There - Every F’ing where 

We were delighted to speak with Lucy Broadbent this week on our Lens of Leadership Rewatch podcast.  Lucy has given so much to the Ted Lasso community with her two best-selling books: What Would Ted Lasso Do? and How To Be A Lioness (Not A Panda).  Be on the look out for our podcast release this Friday - November 8th, 2024.

Also, we're going to Thundergong!  Be sure to follow #leaditlikelasso #thundergong we will keep you posted on the TL community

📦 Nate’s suggestion box: We want to hear from you (and we plan to share) all the great ideas and suggestions around various leadership topics (hopefully now that the locker room water pressure is fixed, we can work on other requests 🙂)

How do you make a suggestion? Just hit reply to this email (do not put gum in your keyboard like Jamie Tartt - just send your ideas our way!)

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