I recently heard a great interview with Patrick Mahomes, the superstar quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs. When asked what he tells himself at the start of every game, his response was simple: “Just be me.”

Here’s a guy on one of the biggest stages in sports, surrounded by incredible pressure and nonstop hype. Yet, his key to success isn’t pretending to be someone else or bowing to external expectations. It’s being authentic—being true to himself and committed to doing his best. That is how Mahomes sources his greatness.

All Superstar Leaders Do This One Thing

Mahomes is not alone. Look at Oprah. She rose to fame by being her authentic self, embracing vulnerability, and showing the world that leading with compassion was a strength. She didn’t try to hide her struggles; instead, she used them to connect with millions.

Richard Branson, one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world, never fit the mold of a typical CEO. Branson’s authenticity shows in the way he leads–rooted in being himself–and delivered with humor, vulnerability, and passion for the unconventional.

Staying Grounded in Turbulent Times

In the middle of all this upheaval, one truth is constant and unchanging: you need a foundation to stay grounded. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself chasing trends and reacting to every new crisis without ever getting a real foothold. 

Change is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to knock you off course. The key to staying steady is having a solid foundation—beginning with what matters most. When you stay grounded in your purpose and core values, you can navigate even the toughest challenges with clarity and resilience. Let’s look at how some companies have done just that.

Just Be You–The Power of Authenticity in Leadership

Authenticity is about being genuine, showing up as your true self, and leading with integrity. It also means you have the hard conversations and take a stand when needed. In my coaching work with top executives, I consistently find that authenticity, a pillar of love-powered leadership, creates the foundation for empowered self-awareness and great success.

To be clear, authenticity doesn’t mean you get a free pass to say whatever comes to mind, no matter how it lands. Being true to yourself doesn’t give permission to be hurtful or dismissive. As an authentic leader, you speak your truth while being thoughtful, clear, and compassionate.

When you are authentic, you build trust and create psychological safety. Your people feel safe relying on you. You own your values and decisions. You lead from a place of personal truth rather than external pressures or expectations.

• Are you committed to being fully, authentically you in your leadership?

• What is the signal you sense that tells you when you are “off”?

5 Amare Steps to Being Fully and Unapologetically YOU

1. Practice self-awareness. Regularly check in with yourself and ask: Are my actions aligned with my values? Am I showing up as the leader I want to be?

2. Own your decisions. Stop second-guessing yourself. Trust your instincts and be clear about why you make the choices you do.

3. Embrace vulnerability. Be honest about what you don’t know or when you need help. Authenticity comes from being open, not perfect.

4. Ask for feedback. Authenticity is a two-way street. Ask for feedback to ensure that you’re communicating openly and that others feel comfortable being themselves around you.

5. Lead by example. Create a culture where authenticity is celebrated, where people feel safe to be their true selves.

Find Your Power in Authentic Leadership

As a leader, you don’t have to act like someone else to be successful. Mahomes does Mahomes. Oprah does Oprah. Branson does Branson. You do you.

Show up as your true self, trust your intuition, and stay grounded in your values. Be confident in who you are, not who you think you should be. 

When faced with a decision or a tough conversation, ask yourself, “How can I show up as my true self in this moment?” Whether it’s in a meeting, a conversation with a colleague, or a decision you’re making, tune in, trust your gut, and lead from a place of calm confidence.

Authenticity is the foundation of great leadership because it fosters connection and transparency. When you lead with authenticity, you invite others to do the same, sparking a chain reaction of trust, courage, and infinite potential.

Coaching Invitation

Ready to lead with authenticity and confidence? Leadership coaching with me can help you embrace your true self as a leader and make decisions that align with your values. Reach out today, and let’s explore how we can take your leadership to the next level.

   

Today’s Amare Wave Wednesday Quote

“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.” 

— Coco Chanel, fashion entrepreneur 

   

Click here and read more Amare Wave Wednesday newsletters on related topics:

6 Powerful Ways to Lead with Authenticity

The Path to Great Leadership Starts Here: Four Steps to Being True to Your Nature

Do NOT Negotiate Your Non-Negotiables! How to Stay True to Your Word as an Amare Love-Powered Leader

Move Beyond Your Role to Remember Who You Are: 5 Steps to Embrace Your True Self as an Authentic Leader

Why Even the Greatest Leaders Need More Than Willpower to Thrive

   

Original article published on Inc.com.