Becoming a Leader Is Becoming Yourself

People yearn for leaders who are authentic, who show their own face and not a game face, who find and use their voice in appropriate ways and act with a tangible sense of integrity. Those who engage in the process of leadership—each of us, at some point—want to do so as our true self. But staying true to one’s self is not easy. We are continually moving in and out of authenticity. We are present one moment and absent the next. We often say “yes” when we want to say “no.” We act from our core values some of the time, but give them a wink when the heat is on. There is no formula for being integral and authentic. Becoming and being ourselves requires confidence and courage. Drawing on the author’s 40 years in leadership training, this book discusses the things we can do along the way—recognizing our strengths and limitations, speaking truth to power, trusting our companions—as we strive to fulfill our leadership potential. Instructors considering this book for use in a course may request an examination copy here.