June 22, 2016
Respectful authenticity is about this constant process of being truthful – first with yourself and then with others. To say the things that need to be said. And to do it in a kind and respectful way. Being authentic isn’t about saying whatever you think or feel. That’s going to be damaging to either you personally, to others, or to the company.
Authenticity Isn't License to be an SOB
Being authentic doesn’t give you license to be an SOB. Do you know someone who has a “This is me – like it or not attitude?” or “I’m mad and am entitled to yell at people.” Respectful authenticity isn’t about doing whatever you want and not caring about the people around you.
Quiet Courage
I like to think about it this way. Respectfully Authentic leaders have quiet courage as they relate to others. (The other two elements of Respectful Authenticity are Knowing Yourself and Being Your Best Self.) This isn’t Rambo courage but rather a courage that comes from deep inside.
Respectfully Authentic Leaders are Sensitive to Others
Respectfully authentic leaders are sensitive to others’ needs. That’s the secret. They’re looking out for the best interests of others. What they’re not doing is focusing solely on themselves, and are careful not to take authenticity too far.
As they share their truths with quiet courage, they flex their leadership style. They consider what the audience can understand, process and make use of. Giving someone information they have little way to process or to understand can just create confusion and anxiety.
As leaders share their truths with quiet courage, they flex their #leadership style.
All this requires reflection on your part before you speak or act. In other words, in some cases, you have to be planful and purposeful (you can’t wing it), which allows you to respond in a more grounded way. When you do, you can trust yourself more and be more confident that you know you’ve thought things through.
And wouldn’t the workplace be even better with more leaders who reflect, and demonstrate Quiet Courage as they communicate with others?
How are you doing at leading with Quiet Courage?
—David Grossman
Written for leaders who wish to bring more of who they truly are to the workplace, this engaging and personal eBook walks through the process of getting there, regardless of where you might be on your personal journey.
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