Popular attention was given to the topic of authentic
leadership through George’s (2003) book, written in response
to a series of ethical lapses on the part of corporate leaders.
George noted that authentic leaders pursue purpose with passion,
practice values, lead with heart and head, establish long-lasting
meaningful relationships, and demonstrate self-discipline. Kernis
(2003) further conceptualized authenticity as comprising the
following four elements: self-awareness; unbiased processing;
relational authenticity; and authentic behaviors. He proposed that
authenticity is developed through self-esteem moments, where
people may get in touch with their true selves or alternatively
conform to social pressures and norms.