Authentic Leadership: Redefining Success, Embracing Growth, and Leading with Heart
Redefining Success, Learning in 2024
This year, my leadership journey wasn’t about awards, titles, or accolades—it was about growth, love, and resilience. From writing my first book draft in Fiji to speaking vulnerably in Las Vegas, from running a groundbreaking EDI conference to conquering the West Coast Trail, I discovered the true meaning of success: showing up authentically, even in struggle. Despite heartbreak, loss, and uncertainty, I’ve embraced the highs and lows, deepened my compassion, and learned that the greatest victories are the ones we define for ourselves.
Embracing Authentic Leadership: My Journey for 2025
This year, I’m choosing to lead with purpose, balance, and authenticity. I’ve started the year in beautiful Mexico, cherishing time with my dad—proof that work-life balance is a form of leadership too. I’m thrilled to host the second annual Cultivating Authentic Leadership Conference in Edmonton, but this time with a renewed focus on joy and sustainability, leaving burnout behind. Building a team to support my business means I’m learning one of the most critical lessons of authentic leadership: you don’t have to do it all yourself. And in March, I’ll celebrate a dream come true by launching my Cultivating Authentic Leadership book! This year will also bring the ultimate personal milestone—marrying my best friend.
Tips for Showing Up Authentically for Yourself
Define Your Own Success: Forget the expectations others place on you. What does success look like for you? Align your actions with that vision.
Break the Cycle: If you’re stuck in patterns that don’t serve you, change the approach. Authentic leadership means daring to ask, “What needs to shift?”
Embrace Support: True leaders know their strength lies in collaboration. Don’t be afraid to lean on others; it doesn’t make you less capable—it makes you unstoppable.
Authentic leadership isn’t about perfection or following a prescribed path. It’s about showing up with courage, vulnerability, and the willingness to grow into the person and leader you’re meant to be.