Why Authentic Leadership Matters (And How To Get Aligned)

The Cost of Leading Out of Alignment

When leaders do not operate authentically, the consequences ripple throughout their teams and organisations:

• Loss of Team Trust: If your team senses a disconnect between your words and actions, trust erodes and engagement drops.

• Reactive Decisions: When you are out of sync with your values, clarity disappears and decision-making becomes scattered and stressful.

• Leader Burnout: Trying to keep the peace or put on a professional mask is draining. Energy dips, and your sense of purpose fades.

• Missed Opportunities: Innovation and collaboration suffer when leaders fear vulnerability or strive to fit a mould.

Authentic leadership is the antidote. When you show up as yourself, you inspire real engagement, build trust, and create sustainable results.

Three Practical Steps to Become a More Authentic Leader

1. Recognise Where You’re Acting Out Of Alignment

Start by reflecting on your recent choices. Ask yourself:

• Where have I been acting from pressure or fear, rather than from my values?

• What is this costing my wellbeing, my impact, or my relationships at work?

A simple weekly check-in with yourself or your team can reveal patterns and help you see where greater authenticity is needed.

2. Embrace Radical Self-Reflection

Authentic leaders do not shy away from honest self-examination, even when it feels uncomfortable.

• Set aside 10 minutes weekly to ask "Where was I most/least real this week?"

• Seek feedback from trusted colleagues on your openness and integrity.

• Practice sharing one “unfinished thought” or genuine challenge with your team—this builds a culture of trust and realness.

3. Build Clarity and Support

Identify a core value to guide every major decision for the month. If you find yourself struggling with vulnerability or feeling out of your depth, consider working with a professional coach. Coaching uncovers blind spots, supports growth, and helps you navigate tough feedback with resilience.

The Payoff: Energy, Engagement, and Real Impact

Making the shift towards authentic leadership is not always easy but it is transformative.

You will notice:

• A renewed sense of confidence and clarity

• Higher levels of energy and focus, even on stressful days

• Greater team trust, engagement, and meaningful collaboration

Ready To Start Leading With Authenticity?

Explore your own leadership alignment with my Authentic Leadership Compass workbook.

It is a confidential guide designed to help you reflect, overcome common challenges, and lead from your highest self. Discover practical strategies, journaling prompts, and an action plan to support your growth.

[Download your Authentic Leadership Compass here]

About Liz Murray

Liz Murray helps leaders cut through the busyness and overwhelm to feel energised, empowered, and clear about what to prioritise and how to lead with confidence.

Learn more: Work with Liz at Edge of Possibilities

Ready to grow your authentic leadership edge?

Whether you are new to leadership or a seasoned executive, the key to real impact is continuous self-reflection and growth.
Check out my course Be Exceptional to take the next step on your leadership journey.

Connect with Liz:

• Instagram: @eopossibilities

• LinkedIn: Liz Murray

• Website: www.edgeofpossibilities.com.au

What’s your biggest challenge when it comes to leading authentically? I’d love to hear your thoughts.