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Writer's pictureJulianne Lang

Espresso Yourself: Leading with Authenticity and Courage


Welcome back to Leadership With a Latte, where we explore the brew that fuels great leadership! Today’s topic is one that requires a strong shot of courage—leading with authenticity. Just like the boldest espresso, showing up as your full, authentic self can be a game-changer for your team. But here’s the catch: authentic leadership isn’t always easy. It takes vulnerability, honesty, and a willingness to be seen for who you really are.

Let’s brew this up together.


Why Authenticity Matters

As leaders, we’ve all been conditioned to think that we need to be flawless, to have all the answers, and to project strength 24/7. But the truth is, the people we lead don’t need us to be perfect. They need us to be real. When you lead with authenticity, you create a culture of trust and openness, where your staff and students feel safe to do the same.

Research from Brené Brown, who has inspired so much of my own leadership journey, tells us that vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change. By showing up authentically, you invite others to bring their true selves to the table, sparking deeper connections and stronger collaboration. In my own experience, leading with authenticity has not only built trust, but it’s also helped me weather the storms of leadership with my integrity intact.


So, how do you actually do it? How do you lead with authenticity in a way that inspires your team, rather than leaving you feeling exposed?


Show Your Story: Reveal Your Why and What Fuels You

Being an authentic leader means letting people in on your story—the “why” behind the decisions you make and the values you hold. One of the most powerful things you can do as a leader is share your personal journey, particularly the challenges that shaped who you are today.


For me, my “why” as a school leader is deeply personal. As a young widow and single mom, I’ve faced challenges that have shaped how I lead with empathy, courage, and grace. I share this with my team not because I want sympathy, but because it’s part of my story. It reminds them (and me) that no one is alone in navigating life’s difficulties. We all carry something, and sharing those moments builds bridges of connection with your team.


Take some time to reflect on your story. What life experiences shaped your leadership style? When was the last time you shared something personal with your team that gave them insight into your decision-making process? Sharing your “why” invites others to reflect on their own purpose, creating a team that’s motivated by shared values rather than just tasks.


Embrace Vulnerability: Admit What You Don’t Know

One of the biggest barriers to authenticity is the fear of not knowing all the answers. As leaders, we often feel pressured to have a solution to every problem, but the truth is, it’s okay not to know. In fact, it can be incredibly empowering to admit it.


Early in my career, I used to think that not knowing something was a sign of weakness. I’d scramble to find answers and present them as if I’d had them all along. But I’ve learned that saying, “I don’t know, but let’s figure it out together” fosters collaboration and trust. It shifts the dynamic from leader and follower to a team of problem-solvers.


The next time you’re faced with a tough situation, don’t be afraid to say, “I’m not sure, but I trust this team to work through it with me.” This kind of vulnerability not only models authenticity but also empowers your staff to take ownership of solutions.


Model Self-Care: Show You’re Human

Here’s a truth that we often forget—leaders are human, too. We get tired. We get overwhelmed. And we need to take care of ourselves just like anyone else. Authentic leadership means acknowledging when you need to slow down and take care of yourself, rather than pushing through at all costs.


I once had a teacher come to me after a long week, eyes tired and spirit worn, asking how I manage to “do it all.” My answer was simple: “I don’t.” I shared with her how I prioritize self-care, whether it’s taking a walk, spending time with my son, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in peace. By showing that I also struggle with balance, I gave her permission to take care of herself, too.


Authenticity in leadership means showing your team that you prioritize your well-being—and that they should, too. Don’t be afraid to model taking a day off when you need it, stepping away for a breather, or setting boundaries. When you do, you’re sending a powerful message that self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential.


Own Your Mistakes: Show That Imperfection is Powerful

No leader is perfect, and pretending to be doesn’t serve you or your team. In fact, owning up to your mistakes can be one of the most authentic acts of leadership. When you’re honest about where you’ve fallen short, you create a culture of accountability without fear.

Not long ago, I made a decision that wasn’t well-received by my staff. Rather than digging in my heels, I acknowledged that I hadn’t communicated effectively. I owned my mistake and opened the floor for feedback. The result? A team that felt heard, respected, and willing to move forward together.


Mistakes are inevitable, but they don’t have to be damaging. By showing your team that you’re not afraid to admit when you’re wrong, you empower them to take risks, innovate, and learn from their own missteps.


Lead with Heart: Courage is Contagious

At the end of the day, leading with authenticity requires courage—courage to be vulnerable, to admit imperfections, to embrace your true self. And here’s the beauty of it: courage is contagious. When you lead with heart, you inspire others to do the same.


So, how can you start leading more authentically today? It’s as simple as opening up. Share your story, admit what you don’t know, prioritize your well-being, and own your mistakes. Your team will see you as not just a leader, but as someone they can trust and relate to.


And remember, just like that perfect espresso shot, authenticity in leadership is strong, bold, and unforgettable. When you show up as your full self, you give your team permission to do the same.


Take a sip of courage, and espresso yourself.



Thank you for joining me on this journey toward authentic leadership! Let’s continue the conversation over on Instagram @leadership.with.a.latte—what’s one way you’ve led with authenticity this week? Let me know in the comments!




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