By Mary Golandin

Authenticity as a prerequisite for Leadership requires genuine individuals who are accepted because people believe in their vision. There are many examples from the past through to the present of individuals who have made a difference on a global level. Many of these examples are people who have become unquestionable leaders because of the circumstances of their lives and times. These individuals have become entitled to acceptance or belief because there is consensus surrounding the known facts of their experiences.

Take Martin Luther King for example. A civil rights activist for black people he led the non violent protest against segregation on buses. During this protest which lasted for more than a year Martin Luther King endured a great deal of personal harassment. He was arrested, his house was bombed and he was on the receiving end of much personal abuse. Nonetheless the successful outcome of desegregation on buses secured his place as a much loved and respected leader of the civil rights movement.

Eleanor Roosevelt a former First Lady of the White house was a passionate campaigner on civil rights issues. She too believed in freedom, liberty and fraternity and went on to help draft one of the most important pieces of legislation, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Human Rights and Civil Liberties were and still are important to Nelson Mandela is an individual worthy of note. Much loved and revered the world over he led by example. He effectively demonstrated the power of non violent, defiant boycotts of institutions which discriminated against others because of their race. His contribution to freedom and justice came at a heavy price to him. He too suffered for his cause. His cause is not a lost cause. He showed how belief in core values can rally others at a global level to take action.

These individuals are no doubt exceptional in that they stood against the cultural norms of their time and paved the way for more tolerant societies. It is not essential that to be authentic is to be a Martin Luther, Eleanor Roosevelt or Nelson Mandela. Authenticity is within the grasp of everyone.

Sustainable Leadership is achieved by supporting people to contribute to their societies, communities, work places. It is about helping people to have an investment in their everyday lives. Leading by example through deeds as opposed to preaching can have positive impact upon the health and well being of others. People feel valued when they can share in the dreams and visions of their leaders.

To help others to reach goals whether this be in work, life, politics, health, business or education requires an understanding of the true self. The ability to reflect on self and the impact each individual has on the lives of others is an important factor.

Authenticity as a prerequisite for leadership is important. People can generally tell when someone is false or attempting to don the mantle of those who have or are great leaders. A genuine interest in promoting the greater good either through work, lifestyle choices, politics, health, the environment or civil liberties will shine through. People who inspire others are generally those who have at their core a desire to make a difference to the lives of the many.

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