With authentic leadership being a relatively new concept to the chain of theories in leadership dogma, one must consider how authenticity is judged in a leader. While many influential people rise to powerful positions in business, social and political economies, no one individual can lay claim to authenticity by design. Authentic leadership develops from a consensus of peers and followers. It is they who recognize and bestow the title of authenticity upon the legacy of the authentic leader.
(Northouse, 2013) illustrates five characteristics of authentic leaderships as developed by (George, 2003) paired with five behavioral dimensions that characterize an authentic leader. The pairings include passion with a purpose, behavior aligned with values, connectedness based on relationships, consistency managed by self-discipline and compassion motivated by heart or emotion. (Terry, 1993) theorizes an action based formula for authentic leadership that includes mission, power, structure, resources, existence and meaning. When a leader successfully manages organizational issues via these formula dimension, Terry advocates that authentic leadership is in action.
As we examine authentic leaders of our recent history, the characteristics and behavioral dimensions in George’s approach become easy to identify as we examine the history of the leaders actions. Martin Luther King Jr.,Nelson Mandela, Tenzin Gyatso (14th Dalai Lama), Winston Churchill, Mohandas Ghandi, and Pope John Paul II are authentic leaders whose life actions set the bar for how authentic leadership can truly be defined. If, however, you had the opportunity today to ask any of these individuals if they were an authentic leader, my guess is that most would ask “What is authentic?” It is that underlying humility, a self-less dedication to a greater good and a higher purpose without the need for personal reward that makes the aura of authenticity glow in our eyes. These authentic leaders did not follow a formula to gain authenticity. They were however, committed to authentic action toward the preservation and progression of humanity.
We as a global society are fortunate to have these examples of authentic leaders. While they may be few in number, their influence and their sacrifice serve as a reminder that we are inherently destined to survive and evolve rather than self-destruct. Each of these great leaders has faced their own enemy and has overcome not through violence or greed but through the dedication to purpose, values, heart, relationship and self-discipline.
What are your thoughts on authentic leadership? Please comment.
Northouse, P. G. (2013). Leadership – Theory and Practice. Los Angeles: Sage Publications.
George, B (2003). Authentic leadership. Rediscovering the secrets to creating lasting value. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass
Terry, R. W. (1993). Authentic leadership: Courage in action. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.