Authentic leadership has many and various aspects and characteristics. There is a radical distinction between understanding all of these various aspects and characteristics and actually living those out. A good working synthesis of authentic leadership comes down to just this:
“You care whether your people live or die and you’re willing to suffer and perhaps die in many and various small and yes sometimes large ways; while constantly striving to do the next hard right thing for – your – people! ”
Humilitas First
Authentic leadership is not about you. Authentic leadership is for your people.
Don’t look for a crown of jewels in this valley of tears. In this life such a crowning is an imposter! When leadership is done correctly it looks very much like a crown of thorns. Expect many crosses and you’ll not be disappointed.