The Secret Power of Leading With Your Whole Self

When coach Pia Sundhage first showed up with a guitar, U.S. team members froze. A leader singing? It felt risky. But as her voice filled the locker room, they felt curious and alive. She’d invited them into her world, modeling that leaders don’t check off parts of themselves when they step up.

At a tech company, engineer Luis rarely spoke in meetings. One day, he mentioned a novel metaphor from his afternoon gardening—his code was like tending soil: you plant seeds, water them, and prune bugs. The team paused, then dug into the discussion with fresh energy. Luis’s vulnerability gave permission for others to share offbeat ideas.

Research on authentic leadership shows that leaders who display vulnerability and personal passions foster psychological safety. Team members feel free to share concerns and innovate. The balance between strength and openness activates higher engagement and trust.

By merging your story—your quirks, passions, and experiences—with your expertise, you cultivate a Pack of leaders. You break down the old model of followers and invite everyone to stand in their full humanity.

You start by writing down two passions that make you feel most alive and why they matter. Then you share one passion with colleagues—maybe by introducing a playlist or a metaphor—so they glimpse your full self. Next, you ask teammates about their interests and find a joint project that blends passions. Finally, you reflect on how these gestures shifted collaboration and openness in your group. Try sharing today.