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Authentic Leadership Self-Assessment

This self-assessment helps you reflect honestly on your leadership style, from everyday behaviours to deeper patterns that may run in the background. There are no “right” or “wrong” answers; it's about insight, not judgment.

Part I: Self-Awareness

Use the scale:
1 = Never true of me | 2 = Rarely true | 3 = Sometimes true | 4 = Often true | 5 = Always true

I regularly reflect on my emotions and reactions.

I can identify what triggers strong emotional responses in me.

I recognize when fear, ego, or insecurity influences my leadership.

I notice signals in my body before or during stress.

I can separate my authentic response from an automatic, conditioned one.

Reflection:

When do you feel most grounded and self-aware as a leader?

Part II: Relational Authenticity

Use the scale:
1 = Never true of me | 2 = Rarely true | 3 = Sometimes true | 4 = Often true | 5 = Always true

I share genuine thoughts and feelings appropriately at work.

I admit mistakes or uncertainty without losing credibility.

I encourage dissenting opinions and manage disagreement without defensiveness.

I balance closeness with healthy professional boundaries.

I notice when I’m seeking approval or recognition through my leadership.

Reflection:

How do others experience you when you’re transparent versus guarded?

Part III: Values & Ethics

Use the scale:
1 = Never true of me | 2 = Rarely true | 3 = Sometimes true | 4 = Often true | 5 = Always true

I make decisions based on values, even under pressure.

I resist compromising integrity for short-term wins.

I consider the broader impact of my choices on people and systems.

I can hold multiple perspectives on ethical issues without rushing to judgment.

I notice when I’m using “being right” as a shield against discomfort.

Reflection:

When have your values been tested, and how did you respond?

Part IV: Communication Under Pressure

Use the scale:
1 = Never true of me | 2 = Rarely true | 3 = Sometimes true | 4 = Often true | 5 = Always true

I listen without immediately preparing a rebuttal.

I express anger or frustration without attacking others.

I can receive criticism without shutting down or counterattacking.

I share the reasoning behind decisions, not just outcomes.

I stay present and authentic in crisis rather than switching into “performance mode.”

Reflection:

What changes in your communication style when you’re stressed?

Part V: Patterns & Blind Spots

Use the scale:1 = Never true of me | 2 = Rarely true | 3 = Sometimes true | 4 = Often true | 5 = Always true

I notice when perfectionism, control, or people-pleasing drive my behavior.

I recognize when I avoid certain people or situations.

I see when humor, sarcasm, or over-helping become ways to avoid discomfort.

I’m aware of ways my past experiences shape my leadership relationships.

I can spot when my strengths slip into liabilities (e.g., high standards → micromanagement).

Reflection:

Which patterns cost you the most trust, energy, or connection?

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