​​The Power of Authenticity: Discovering Your Leadership Style

Authenticity is not just a trait—it’s a strength in leadership. For women in business, embracing a unique leadership style is essential when faced with environments often shaped by traditional norms. The outdated belief that everyone needs to act, think, and behave a certain way to succeed is gradually fading. Businesses now recognize that having broad perspectives and approaches gives them an edge in today’s multi-faceted world. Developing a work style aligned with one's values can be a catalyst for career growth, accentuating what makes that person a unique contributor and team member. 

It is important to remember that leadership is not simply about directing. In early career roles, leadership is often about getting things done without the power of title or position. Authenticity enhances our ability to connect with others - by being genuine, we build trust and create a safe space for collaboration. It starts with embracing and understanding oneself, and there are several tools to help us identify and lean into our unique capabilities. These tools can identify strengths, address weaknesses, and help adapt to changing environments while working with others.

One framework for understanding leadership styles is the Leadership Compass, which draws from a Native American based practice called the Medicine Wheel or the Four-Fold Way. This model emphasizes balance, interconnectedness, and the strengths of diverse leadership approaches.

The compass is divided into four directions, each symbolizing a unique approach:

• North (Warrior): Focused on action, decisiveness, and protection. Leaders here are bold and resolute.
• South (Healer): Emphasizes compassion, empathy, and nurturing. These leaders excel in creating supportive environments.
• West (Teacher): Prioritizes knowledge-sharing and collaboration. They guide teams through wisdom and learning.
• East (Visionary): Focused on creativity and innovation, these leaders excel at future planning and strategic thinking.

By identifying which direction one resonates with, we can consciously develop our brand in the workplace while drawing on other directions to adapt when necessary. One of the most significant benefits of the leadership compass is its ability to create understanding and collaboration among teams. Each direction brings a different benefit, and recognizing these important distinctions allows for a blend of styles that can make teams more successful. That is one of the most important reasons for sharing our leadership style with others. For many, this approach is particularly empowering. It shows that there is no "right" way to lead, but that unique styles can succeed and often enable creativity and powerful business outcomes.