Lead Like a Real Person

I didn’t expect leadership inspiration when I listened to Alton Brown’s latest book, Food for Thought. I was there for the stories, snark, and food science told in his unmistakable voice. It felt like watching Good Eats all over again.

But one quote stuck with me long after I finished the book:

“Personal authenticity trumps perfection every time.”

It’s not just a reminder about personal style it’s a leadership truth.

Too often, managers feel pressure to lead like a version of themselves they think they’re supposed to be all-knowing, polished, always in control. But people don’t want perfect leaders. They want real ones. Leaders who are human. Leaders who admit mistakes, share what they’re learning, and connect honestly.

That kind of leadership doesn’t come from a manual or an MBA. It comes from lived experience and, often, from life outside of work.

Some of the best leadership lessons come from unexpected places:

• Reading fiction that challenges how you see the world.

• Trying to get dinner on the table when everything’s burning and the dog’s barking.

• Coaching your kid’s team.

• Volunteering in spaces that have nothing to do with your day job.

These moments build mindfulness, patience, humility, adaptability, and empathy. They shape how you show up for your team and lead. Because who you are is your most powerful leadership tool.

When you lead like a real person, you build trust. People can feel when you're being honest. They’re more likely to take risks, share ideas, and engage fully because they see you doing the same.

Stop chasing flawless. Be curious. Be human. Be yourself.

As Alton Brown said: authenticity wins. And in leadership, it wins every time.