What is authentic leadership? It is perhaps best defined by what it is not. It is not scheming, backstabbing, conniving leadership. And it is not leadership that is based on deceit and trickery. Rather, authentic leadership works by relying on individuals’ innate want for honesty, rules, and truth.

As an example of authentic leadership, consider Mark Cuban, owner of an HDTV cable network and the NBA basketball team, the Dallas Mavericks. One thing is immediately clear about Cuban: he says what is on his mind, no matter how much it offends others. And when it comes time to take decision action and to lead others, he does it. He has all the traits of an authentic leader, including courage, honesty, and passion. Those who are around him and who work for him understand that he is a force to be reckoned with. And perhaps this explains his success as an entrepreneur.

In essence, an authentic leader is someone who embodies accountability and courage. When it comes time to point fingers, an authentic leader places most of the blame on herself, but doesn’t spare others when the blame is well-deserved.  Through her behavior and her composure, an authentic leader encourages others to be more like she is; and to ensure that the company embodies her traits and her goals.

In summary, authentic leadership is a vital component of any successful business or organization. With it, an institution can thrive; and can promote those associated with it to thrive, too. And without it, moving forward, making improvements, and fixing problems can be difficult.