There has been a spate of articles recently discussing the idea that authenticity is now a key underpinning element of great leadership with self-awareness through 360 degree feedback at it's foundation.

This is no real suprise; in order to be authentic with others, one must have a good sense of self and a level of awareness around what they excel at and where they may need to develop.

Displaying confidence and humility, appropriate to a given situation, builds trust, as does demonstrating integrity in all that one does.

These elements are all interlinked; self-awareness develops both the confidence and humility, and ensures leaders are not undermined by others abilities; they can liberate and encourage those abilities and skills to flourish.

As the Chinese philisopher, Lao-Tzu said, "He who knows much about others may be learned, but he who understands himself is more powerful. He who controls others may be powerful, but he who has mastered himself is mightier still."

John