Embracing authentic leadership as an introvert: a self-discovery

In the dynamic context of clinical practice, leadership is not limited to extroverted individuals. For introverts like me, navigating leadership has been a journey of self-reflection, growth and the discovery of my own authentic leadership style. My journey started with mirroring my extroverted manager until I began to embrace my own innate leadership qualities. This is testament to the transformative power of self-awareness and authenticity in leadership.

As an introvert, the pressure to adhere to societal expectations of leadership can often cause internal conflicts. I found myself observing and mirroring the behaviours and traits of my manager, as I believed that this was the only way to achieve success as a leader. However, this imitation only exacerbated the disparity between my true self and the leader that I wanted to become.

I embarked on a journey of personal growth through introspection and self-discovery. Recognising the inherent strengths of introversion, such as deep listening, thoughtful reflection and a preference for meaningful connections, I began to embrace my authentic self. Rather than viewing introversion as a hindrance to leadership, I began to understand it as a unique advantage, offering a distinct perspective and approach to leadership. The realisation that authenticity is the foundation of effective leadership was essential. I began to cultivate a leadership style that aligned with my values, preferences and strengths. Instead of conforming to the traditional hierarchical model of leadership, I pursued a democratic approach—one characterised by collaboration, inclusivity and shared decision making.