Synopsis
Herminia Ibarra’s “The Authenticity Paradox” posits that there is a misconception among many leaders about what it means to be authentic. It is not being entirely transparent, allowing others to see through you. Additionally, Ibarra argued that being true to self can hinder progress and cripple our ability to improve or change. If a person is set in our definition of who we are, our true self, then we struggle to change ourselves for fear of betraying who we believe we are.
Additionally, Ibarra also addressed the idea of a global market, including social media and the internet. Cultures collide, potentially working internationally, and what is acceptable in one culture may not be acceptable in another. So it isn’t easy to be wholly true to one’s self.
Ibarra cautions that a leader must identify how close and far you place yourself from a situation or your people. This becomes problematic for those set on authenticity to the degree of stifling their abilities. For example, an authoritative leader can appear harsh, explosive, and at times unapproachable. Although there is a time and place where authoritative approaches work, not every situation calls for it, and not all people respond to it. However, if this is their nature (true to themselves), how would they handle critical feedback or criticism?
Just My Thoughts
Ibarra makes several points throughout her (yes, I used “her” instead of the author) article. I genuinely agree that authenticity is a slippery slope. Unfortunately, I made similar mistakes she discusses and found that being too authentic affected my confidence and the environment as well. I’m not sure people want someone who will share their deepest fear with them as a leader. I do believe they want you to be honest, but they are already feeling specific ways. A leader is not supposed to add to their already high pile of you know what.
A leader is supposed to be dependable, reliable, confident, a mentor, etc. When we show our fears and lack of confidence, what are we showing our people? I think this will come up again when we discuss one of the books later on. However, the point is, authenticity is important, but being too authentic is dangerous.
I recommend you read Ibarra’s article. She presents it differently than George did. Authenticity, while important, has a thin line you must be aware of and be cautious.