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Authentic leadership is more than just a buzzy term—it's a powerful approach that transforms teams, fosters trust, and inspires lasting impact. Leaders who invest in greater self-awareness, are better equipped to create environments where employees feel valued, motivated, and empowered to contribute their best work. But what does authentic leadership truly look like in practice? And how can leaders cultivate this approach to inspire loyalty and engagement? This article breaks down the key principles of authentic leadership, explores its impact on teams, and provides actionable steps to develop self-awareness and lead with integrity.
Self-awareness is the foundation of authentic leadership. Leaders who understand their strengths, values, and areas for growth can lead with clarity and integrity. Here are some effective methods for developing self-awareness:
1. Coaching:
2. Feedback Loops:
2. Mindfulness and Reflective Practices:
In our December 2024 Medley Moments episode, our Co-Founder Edith Cooper sat down with LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan, who shared highlights from her leadership journey. Rooted in a love for sports and teamwork, Mollie reflected on how clarity of values shaped her leadership approach. She shared, "When I’m part of a team, my feet are exactly where I want them to be." Mollie also highlighted the importance of demonstrating care for her team, saying, "Your team needs to know you care." Recognizing her role in inspiring young women, she explained how this commitment shapes the way she prioritizes and invests her time.
Authenticity lays the groundwork for trust and psychological safety—two critical drivers of team performance and engagement. When leaders bring their full, authentic selves to their work:
Mollie’s leadership at the LPGA highlights the importance of being intentional with time and focus as a leader. During her conversation with Edith, Mollie shared how she prioritizes connecting with her team and creating opportunities for honest dialogue. She emphasized the importance of inspiring the next generation, particularly young women, and how this shapes her approach to leadership. By focusing on the human aspects of her role, Mollie cultivated an environment where trust and collaboration flourished, setting a powerful example of authentic leadership. Her example reminds us that authentic leadership isn’t just about outcomes—it’s about the impact you have on the people and communities you serve.
While authenticity strengthens teams, it requires a willingness to be vulnerable. Leaders often face challenges such as:
Facing these challenges as a leader requires a thoughtful and intentional approach. As people leaders, vulnerability isn’t about sharing everything—it’s about being honest when navigating challenges, acknowledging areas of uncertainty, and fostering an environment where collaboration thrives.
Mollie’s journey exemplifies the power of vulnerability in leadership. As she transitioned from player to Commissioner, Mollie embraced both successes and setbacks while consistently aligning her actions with her values. When sharing her decision to step down from the LPGA, she demonstrated how prioritizing growth, personal alignment, and impact can inspire trust and engagement at every level.
Authentic leadership is a transformative force in today’s workplaces. By embracing self-awareness, leading with vulnerability, and staying true to core values, leaders can inspire trust, loyalty, and increased engagement within their teams. Mollie Marcoux Samaan’s journey as the LPGA Commissioner reminds us that authenticity when paired with courage and reflection, can drive both personal fulfillment and professional success.
At Medley, we’re committed to helping leaders develop the skills and self-awareness needed to lead authentically. Through coaching and intentional growth, leaders can inspire stronger, more cohesive teams where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
