Embodying Transformation and Authentic Leadership 

In a LinkedIn world, we are bombarded with messages about doing more, being better, and garnering awards and certificates – all forms of external validation. But for those of us who are already doing what we need to be doing – or are stretched too thin to do any more than what we are doing now, what is the counter-narrative? 

Where is the message that you are enough, just as you are? 

Allow me to introduce you to the concept of embodying transformation. 

Embodying Transformation 

There is certainly a place for seeking degrees, certifications, and the like when they make sense for your aspirational career goals. But we should not get stuck in today’s conventional mindset of perpetual striving. 

May I suggest that inside you, at your core, is an inherent brilliance? Your unique strengths and star power are quietly waiting for you to embrace them and release them into the world for everyone else to see. You don’t need to accumulate unnecessary diplomas and accolades to be a leader; you just need to be yourself. 

Try for a moment to release yourself from the idea that you seek out those external validations to prove your prowess. Instead, recognize that you are already equipped with the qualities of a leader. Those qualities came with the factory settings! 

I want to be clear that in no way would I downplay the importance of education or invalidate learning and growth. On the contrary, I’m simply offering you an alternate, a shift in focus, if you will. Recognize that affirmation can come from within even more powerfully than it can come from without. Furthermore, your inherent potential is limitless. Your true ability to be a leader isn’t found in an online course or a 40 Under 40 nomination. It is in the authenticity of your being. 

Therefore, embodying transformation emphasizes the power of embracing your uniqueness. It asks you to look for the answers inside yourself and recognize those qualities that make you a leader. 

Reflection 

You may be wondering how to begin to apply the concept of embodying transformation to yourself. It all starts, as many things do, with self-reflection. 

Grab a notebook and write down the answers to these questions: 

1️⃣ What are your greatest strengths, values, and passions?

2️⃣ When do you feel the most alive and engaged?

3️⃣ What is the unique perspective that you offer the world? 

By clarifying for yourself who you really are, the outward embodiment of your authentic leadership unfolds. In other words, let your leadership flag fly! 

Beyond Titles 

Director. VP. CFO. These are great titles. They are bestowed upon people in leadership roles within company structures, typically because they have specific skills and credentials. It’s a misconception, however, to assume that these are the only leaders in an organization. Or that a title is the only pathway to being recognized as someone who leads. 

Beyond skillsets and titles lie influence, inspiration, and authenticity. Embodying transformation invites you to put on your leadership shoes and walk through the world as your authentic self. Authenticity attracts, and genuine connections are a starting point for developing your potential. 

So, my gift to you is permission to pass on the pressure of adding endlessly to your CV. Unless you actually have a skills gap to fill, you don’t need another certificate on the wall to validate your worth as a leader. Instead, hone the leadership chops that already reside within you. It’s not about blending in. Ultimately, you set yourself apart by proudly flashing your unique blend of talent, experience, and point of view. 

To summarize, you don’t need to become someone else to be a leader. It’s time to celebrate your individuality and recognize that authentic expression is leadership. Embody transformation and embrace your unapologetically unique self. 

You are enough. In fact, you are MORE than enough, just as you are.