The "IF 16"
Leadership Attributes
Number 13: Authenticity – The Power to Keep Your Virtue and Common Touch
“If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings – nor lose the common touch...”
Authenticity is the quality of being genuine or not corrupted from the original. It is about knowing who you are and not being swayed by your audience or stakeholders. Leaders often have many groups vying for their attention, and remaining authentic can be challenging. President Theodore Roosevelt was expert at remaining himself regardless of who he was with.
Authenticity requires:
1. Pursuing one’s purpose with vigor
2. Acting according to one’s values
3. Maintaining strong relationships
4. Demonstrating self-discipline.
