Case 11.1: Am I Really a Leader?

1. Learning about ones self is an essential step in becoming an authentic

leader. What role did self-awareness play in Sally Helgesens story of
leadership?
Sally did not have much self-awareness in the beginning of her journey. She
originally followed her dream to New York to be a writer, but became unmotivated.
Upon seeing a symbol that reminds her of the dream, she found self-awareness of
her dream and acted upon it.
1. How would you describe the authenticity of Sally Helgesens leadership?
I would describe Sallys authenticity of leadership as internalized moral perspective.
She knew inside what was wrong and what was right to guide her behavior, and did
not let outside behaviors control them.
1. At the end of the case, Sally Helgesen is described as taking on the mantle
of leadership. Was this important for her leadership? How is taking on the
mantle of leadership related to a leaders authenticity? Does every leader
reach a point in his or her career where embracing the leadership role is
essential?
Yes, this is important for her leadership because it puts her in a flight or fight
situation. Fleeing from the approaching situation would reflect poorly on her
leadership qualities, but assessing if she can embrace taking on the mantle of
leadership and be seen as a great, proactive leader who is ready to accept a
challenge. However, I do not believe this is how every leader enters their leadership
role, I believe some leaders would be much less hesitant of the situation.