"The Heart of Authentic Leadership":
Culture Over Strategy: The Heart of Authentic Leadership (Episode 4 of a 6 part series)
We’ve all heard the phrase “culture eats strategy for breakfast.” It’s more than a catchphrase - it’s a powerful truth that defines the essence of successful organisations. When culture is strong, strategy flows effortlessly. But when dynamics shift and challenges arise, even the most well-crafted strategies can falter.
Leadership Isn’t About Agreement—It’s About Respectful Challenge
True leadership isn’t about surrounding yourself with people who nod along and say ‘yes’. It’s about building a team of individuals who:
Bring diverse skills and perspectives
Have knowledge in areas you do not
Are not afraid to challenge your thinking
This kind of team doesn’t just support you—they sharpen you. They help you see blind spots, refine ideas, and make better decisions.
Listen Deeply, Decide Wisely
Authentic leadership means listening to all sides of a proposed change. It’s understanding the ripple effects across the business and making informed decisions based on trusted conversations. Conflict isn’t a threat—it’s a tool. When managed respectfully, it leads to broader thinking and stronger outcomes.
Guard Your Energy, Trust Your Team
Leadership is also about protecting your energy and being intentional about who you surround yourself with. When your team questions the process, don’t shut it down - lean into it. Debate ideas, learn from their experience, and once you’ve gathered the facts, trust your gut. But don’t forget to bring your team along. Inclusion and buy-in are key, especially when the decision is unpopular.
Your Legacy Is What’s Said When You’re Not in the Room
Growth comes from being challenged. The ability to pivot and compromise shapes your reputation. As leaders, we should care about how we’re spoken about by our team when we are not present. Aim to be the kind of leader who, even when decisions aren’t universally agreed upon, is respected and spoken of with integrity.