Leading from Identity, Not Just Your Role
- Author
- Stay Forth
- Published
- Thu 26 Jun 2025
- Episode Link
- https://www.stayforthleadershippodcast.com/e/leading-from-identity-not-just-your-role/
In Episode 4 of our H2 Leader Summer Series, Alan and Jonathan hit on one of the most liberating leadership truths: “Who you are matters more than what you do.” In a world that obsessively equates titles, achievements, and performance metrics with worth, it’s easy to lose sight of the unshakeable identity and purpose beneath the surface.
Join them as they unpack:
The difference between your role (what shows up on your org chart) and your identity (your character, values, and calling)
Why chasing “praise, promotions, and posts” leaves you vulnerable to burnout and emptiness
How to begin leading from who you are, not just from what you produce
Practical first steps—daily rhythms, margin, and nontransactional relationships—that reinforce your true identity
If you’ve ever felt like you woke up and realized your career had swallowed your self-worth, this episode is for you. Press play, and start rooting your leadership in purpose, not performance.
Key Topics Covered
Role vs. Identity: Why a job description can never define your lasting worth
Performance Traps: How external accolades both feed and betray your soul
Identity Anchors: The character traits, values, and deep “why” that outlast any project or title
Practical Shifts:
Small daily practices to remind yourself of your true self
Building non-transactional friendships who “aren’t impressed” but love you anyway
Creating margin (walks, lunches, buffer time) to reconnect with your purpose
Reflect & Apply
Set aside 10–15 minutes with a journal or blank page, and explore these two questions:
Who am I becoming as a leader?
What core truths do I need to return to regularly?
Don’t rush—let these questions guide you toward leading from your identity, not just from your job description.
