In the realm of leadership, women often find themselves navigating through a landscape where the norms and expectations are set by a different mold. But there exists within them a deep-rooted understanding that there is another path to leadership, one that embraces authenticity and challenges conventional notions. I invite you to explore with me the four key aspects of leadership that I've observed to be pivotal for women who dare to lead authentically.

1. Bias: Uncovering what lies beneath.

As I reminisced about my initial days in Nauru, surrounded by diverse cultures, I discovered an unconscious bias rooted in my upbringing in a predominantly white Australia. Bias, the first layer of the Pyramid of Authentic Leadership, is the inclination to favor specific groups or ideas, shaped by our upbringing and cultural influences. It operates in the realm of "fast thinking," affecting our decisions and relationships. Acknowledging our biases is the first step towards authentic leadership, fostering awareness and paving the way for growth.

2. Shame: A Catalyst for Self-Reflection

The second side of the pyramid brings us to shame, an intense and often concealed emotion. Shame, as defined by Brené Brown, signals a breach of values, leading us to believe we are unworthy of acceptance. Instead of shying away from shame, we can view it as a powerful ally. By identifying the values underlying shame, we gain the opportunity to either reaffirm or reassess them, allowing us to discard outdated values that no longer serve our growth.

3. Vulnerability: The Strength in Authenticity

Contrary to popular belief, vulnerability is not about airing every secret or expressing unbridled emotions. Authentic vulnerability involves being aware of one's emotions, owning personal narratives, and selectively sharing them. Vulnerability is a key strength for women leaders as it builds connections and relationships. By sharing their authentic journeys, leaders can inspire and foster a sense of unity among their teams, ultimately enhancing trust and confidence.

4. Values: The Solid Foundation

At the base of the Pyramid of Authentic Leadership lies values—principles or standards that guide behaviour and judgment. Identifying our core values is crucial for staying true to ourselves in the face of external expectations. Courage, creativity, and connection are my core values, providing a stable foundation. Meg Selig's suggestions for identifying values include exploring admired individuals, reflecting on workplace role models, and observing personal triggers, all of which contribute to a deeper understanding of our core values.

Embracing the Pyramid: A Strategy for Growth

The Pyramid of Authentic Leadership is not just a theoretical construct; it's a practical strategy for personal and professional growth. By acknowledging biases, using shame as a guide for self-reflection, embracing vulnerability, and staying true to our values, we can create a leadership style that resonates with authenticity and inclusivity. This pyramid is not just for women; it's a universal framework for anyone aspiring to lead with authenticity and impact.

The journey towards authentic leadership involves a continuous process of self-discovery, growth, and a commitment to fostering genuine connections. As we navigate the Pyramid of Authentic Leadership, we contribute to a collective shift in leadership paradigms, creating a world where diversity is celebrated, vulnerability is valued, and leaders inspire through their genuine and authentic selves.