The Art Of Being An Authentic Leader – Ngā Kaiwhakaora Ngangahau Hei Kaihautū

Occupational therapists make decisions, guide outcomes, solve problems, and have followers therefore we are all leaders regardless of our job titles. Our profession values person-centred practice yet as a leader, we often forget to allow our true authentic self to come through in our leadership practice. Being authentic is owning one’s experiences, thoughts, emotions and embedding all actions within our personal values. In order to stand tall, be confident and shine bright in an environment that often wants us to play small and not stand out, we need to have the authentic tools and skills to recognise who we are as individuals. We may have repeating stories that hold us back, or get stuck on a past negative experience and are unable to bounce back with resilience. These challenges can be turned around to enable us to shine with confidence. Authentic Leadership provides a framework that is individualised to enable each person to stand in their own truth, make sense of the past and lead themselves and others with compassion and confidence. Research has identified that when we action strategies to step into our authentic power to lead, we will have higher levels of productivity, less stress, and be more resilient leaders. This presentation will define the terms of Authentic Leadership, explore the research around leading authentically, and provide strategies to implement change, based on the science of subjective wellbeing and positive psychology. All occupational therapists can develop the art of Authentic Leadership. To be the individuals to stand tall, be seen, and shine.