185. The Chameleon, the Tortoise, and the Myth of Authentic Leadership
Fri Feb 06 2026
Authenticity is a hoax. Maybe that comes off strong, but in my opinion, "authenticity" has become an overused buzzword that often masks indulgence and accountability-dodging, rather than genuine self-awareness. Real authenticity isn't about being the same person in every situation—it's about having "Authenticity Filters" that allow you to be intentional and adaptable while staying grounded in your core values. The most effective leaders recognize they contain multitudes: they protect their core like a chameleon while loosening their shell like a tortoise, and understand that different roles require different versions of themselves, all of which are authentically them.
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Authenticity is a hoax. Maybe that comes off strong, but in my opinion, "authenticity" has become an overused buzzword that often masks indulgence and accountability-dodging, rather than genuine self-awareness. Real authenticity isn't about being the same person in every situation—it's about having "Authenticity Filters" that allow you to be intentional and adaptable while staying grounded in your core values. The most effective leaders recognize they contain multitudes: they protect their core like a chameleon while loosening their shell like a tortoise, and understand that different roles require different versions of themselves, all of which are authentically them. Subscribe to my Substack Newsletter for more Take Care Coaching https://dannycoleman.substack.com/ Check out the Take Care website and join the mailing list for insights delivered right to your inbox every week! takecarecoaching.com Connect with Danny! Instagram: @itsdannycoleman Twitter: @itsdannycoleman Website: dannycoleman.net