Last Saturday afternoon, I received a surprise gift to attend an evening performance of one of the Netherlands top percussion bands, seated in the third row. Two moments from the show stood out to me as powerful examples of leadership.
Midway through the performance, a band member suggested we clap our hands. With a simple, intentional gesture, the entire audience followed suit. Later, they asked us to stand up and dance. I looked around, and no one was moving.
Despite feeling fear, I chose to dance anyway. The performer on stage noticed. We connected and shared a laugh. These interactions highlight the importance of courageous authenticity in leadership. The word ‘courage’ originates from the French ‘courage,’ meaning heart. True courage involves acting from the heart, embracing both emotions and the core of what matters.
These interactions highlight the importance of courageous authenticity in leadership. The word ‘courage’ originates from the French ‘corage,’ meaning heart. True courage involves acting from the heart, embracing both emotions and the core of what matters.
Leading with Courage
Leaders often have to take unconventional approaches. It takes courage to say ‘no’ when everyone else is saying ‘yes,’ and to act despite fear. Courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to recognize it and act nonetheless.
Know Your Purpose and Vision
Courageous leaders have a clear purpose and vision. What is truly important to you? Understanding your core values and goals allows you to lead with authenticity. View fears and doubts as allies rather than enemies. They can provide valuable insights and drive personal growth.
Confidence in Your Abilities
Confidence stems from knowing your skills and abilities. In the Leadership Circle 360 profile, authenticity—linked to courage and integrity—correlates with leadership effectiveness, vision, teamwork, and business performance. This authenticity is central to a creative and innovative mindset.
Courageous Conversations
In business, courageous leadership involves open and truthful conversations. This often means stepping out of your comfort zone and into the unknown. Knowing your vision and purpose makes this leap possible. It requires deep self-awareness and a willingness to be vulnerable.
Embracing Fear
We are not trying to eliminate fear but to understand it. By acknowledging and understanding our fears, we can make effective and powerful decisions that benefit everyone.
Collective Leadership
The future of leadership is collective. The world is too complex for any one person to handle alone. Being able to speak truthfully to one another is crucial. Collective leadership fosters innovation, resilience, and success.
Embracing fear and leading with courageous authenticity is about acting from the heart, understanding your fears, and having the confidence to be true to yourself and others.
Reflect on these questions:
What fears are holding you back?
How can you embrace courageous authenticity in your leadership role?
Below you find some practical ways you can explore fear and leading with courageous authenticity
