Many leaders have a deep fear of failure. According to the book True North, all leaders are prone to losing their way and face significant hazards on their journeys. As with most people, leaders desire rewards and acceptance from others, and most want to avoid negative consequences. Authentic leaders must learn to be aware of and overcome personal impulses that lead to problematic behaviors.

The book (that you are encouraged to read) focuses on why leaders lose their way, discussing five “perils” on the leadership journey: being an imposter, rationalizing, glory-seeking, playing the loner, and being a shooting star.

Choose one issue you most identify with, or that you see as potentially being a challenge for you.

The Rationalizer - “I am not responsible for my failures”

Describe a situation where you rationalized failing to live up to your values. What values were you working around? How did you feel at the time? What happened? What would you differently if you found yourself in a similar situation again?