Discovering My True North: Choosing to Lead with Authenticity, Purpose, and Self-Love

I have always loved reading, but about 12 months ago, I became intentional about understanding its impact on my mental well-being, my growth, and my pursuit of happiness. What I found surprised me. Books didn’t just expand my knowledge — they expanded me. They energized my thoughts, renewed my creativity, and strengthened my sense of self-worth.

That’s why I’ve decided to share the impact of each book I read. If even one reflection helps someone else, that is enough.

I recently finished True North by Bill George and Peter Sims — a book that profoundly shifted my understanding of leadership. It made me realize that leadership is not just a title or a set of skills.

It is a journey toward authenticity.

The authors define a leader as “someone who brings people together to pursue a shared purpose.”

Reading this, I paused. I reflected on what it means to lead — in the workplace, in the community, and even within our families.

Then I came across a line that made me inhale deeply: “Leadership is a human undertaking.”

It reminded me that leadership is not about the leader, but about the people we serve.

I always knew leadership required selflessness. However, this book helped me realize that leadership, at its core, is an act of love — beginning with self-love. Self-acceptance becomes the foundation for accepting others. When we love ourselves unconditionally, we bring vulnerability, empathy, and purpose into our leadership.

Leadership becomes a vehicle for change, growth, and connection.

Leaders become enablers — helping others discover their paths, strengths, and purpose.

Authentic leadership is not easy, but it is necessary. If we want a better world, we must choose to be authentic leaders wherever we go and with everyone we encounter.

Leaders can build or destroy.

I choose to build — and I hope you do too