A leader is not a manager. Leading leads to X times performance, managing results in only 1 x. The difference is not even funny. The difference is amazing!
I consider myself a leader with integrity. It feels good when that is being validated by external people, by giving me advice. It also can be validated by just checking yourself. I responded to an email and responded in a frank, open way. No sugar coating. A few weeks later I can forward that email to someone that is important. And even though it’s a delicate subject, I am actually proud of my response. I am just doing my thing.