The Authenticity Trap

Intro: The myth of authenticity and why it’s misunderstood in leadership

Personal Story: How Allison’s “authentic” leadership nearly derailed her team

Key Idea: Authenticity without context = emotional self-indulgence

Main Concept: Contextual Leadership—choosing which true version of yourself best serves the moment

Three Strategies:

Situation Assessment: Ask what the moment requires

Leadership Wardrobe: Build and switch between 5 intentional leadership modes

Authenticity Audit: Who are you really serving when you're “being yourself”?

Case Study: Coaching a CEO through personal challenges without destabilizing his team

Challenge for Listeners: Try the Situation Assessment in 3 real-life interactions this week

Key Takeaway: Great leaders aren’t emotionally consistent—they’re contextually brilliant

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