Authentic leadership is a newly recognized leadership theory that is still becoming a refined theory (The Pennsylvania State University, 2013). Therefore, authentic leadership can be defined from an intrapersonal, interpersonal, or developmental perspective. The developmental perspective focuses on the development of authentic leadership over a leader’s lifetime (Northouse, 2013). Authentic leadership is characterized by passion, compassion, consistency, connectedness, and behavior (Northouse, 2013). In short, an authentic leader must be viewed as ethical and trustworthy (Northouse, 2013).
I do not have direct work related experiences with authentic leadership; however, I do recall a time last year when I was able to hear Maya Angelou speak in person. Maya Angelou is a well-known poet and inspirational speaker; a brief introduction video can be found by following the previous link (Angelou, 2009a). From my experience, Angelou seems to embody authentic. Angelou can even be considered “one of the most renowned and influential leaders of our time” (Dr. Maya Angelou the Official Website, 2013). At 85 years of age, Angelou has an array of experiences and acquaintances that would impress almost anyone. In addition, Angelou is an African-American woman that experienced single motherhood at a young age; however, she continued to become a successful and well known artist (Dr. Maya Angelou the Official Website, 2013). Angelou uses her gained life experience to share words of wisdom and lessons learned through her poetry.
While listening to Angelou speak about a year ago, I was inspired and encouraged by her words. She spoke with such passion, purpose, understanding, and compassion. She was instantly able to connect and inspire an auditorium full of individuals within her first few words. She communicated a life time worth of lessons learned through her poetry. Through her words, anyone can hear her deep desires for equality and a better world. The experience of being in the same room and hearing this amazing woman speak cannot be transmitted through my words, so I am going to link to another video of Angelou discussing leaving a better world for our children (Angelou, 2009b). I hope that you are able to truly sense the genuine, truthful, and passionate nature behind Angelou’s words.
As suggested by Northouse, authentic leadership can be difficult to track and research (2013). However, genuine individuals like Angelou who encourage, inspire, and empower individuals to action show me that authentic leadership is real and useful. In a world where horrible things are happening, it is inspiring that people like Angelou exist with a mission to truly make and leave the world a better place. Angelou has developed into an individual who is able to move a room with her works, and she has learned how to use her skills and talents for the betterment of all. I would encourage every human in the world to consider how you can use your abilities to leave our world a better place and become an authentic leader.
References
Angelou, Maya. (2009a). Maya Angelou introduces letter to my daughter. Vimeo. Linked video retrieved from http://vimeo.com/5465342
Angelou, Maya. (2009b). Maya Angelou: A better world for our children. Vimeo. Linked video retrieved from http://vimeo.com/5465661
Dr. Maya Angelou the Official Website. (2013). Biography. Retrieved from http://mayaangelou.com/bio/
Northhouse, P. G. (2013). Leadership (6th ed.). Los Angeles, CA: SAGE Publications.
The Pennsylvania State University. (2013). Lesson 12: Authentic leadership. Retrieved from https://courses.worldcampus.psu.edu/su13/psych485/002/toc.html