Article By Rachel Sinanan; ACMP ANZ Research Lead
There is a great deal of talk around Authentic leadership, and what it brings to organisations and employees alike. The overarching concept of Authentic leadership is explained as one who draws upon their own emotions, beliefs, thoughts, needs and wants, and acting with behaviours that are true to their inner self.
It has been shown to be a motivator, encourage organisational commitment. Although not a new concept, it is considered to be a powerful leadership style.
Why is Authentic Leadership important?
What does Authentic Leadership actually mean?
Self-awareness: Authentic leaders are aware of their own strengths and weaknesses. By allowing true self-awareness, it helps with recruiting the right team around them, giving balance, to enhnace:
- Transparency
- Strong relationship and connectedness with teams
- Active listening skills
- Emotional intelligence
- Empathy within the organisation
- Purpose and passion
- Emotional control
- Humility
But what about the leader themselves?
There is a plethora of information out there on how to look after employee’s health and wellbeing. Anyone in leadership is aware that this is a priority in any organisation. Whilst the employees are feeling safer, happier, and heard in a healthy organisational culture because of great authentic leader, what about the leader themselves?
Being a great leader takes its toll on mental health, which in turn can affect physical health. It has been shown that leaders who prioritise their own mental health demonstrate higher emotional intelligence, empathy, and resilience.This comes back to being self-aware. As a leader…are you self-aware enough to know if your mental health is suffering? Do you take time to practice self-care?
Do you need help with your mental health? The following organisations can help.