What Does ‘Owning Your Authority’ Actually Mean?

In coaching, personal and professional development, one often hears the phrase "owning your authority." But what does 'owning your authority' mean, and why is it so crucial? Whilst as a coach, having authority obviously doesn't mean asserting power or control but rather stepping into your authentic self and recognizing the inherent influence you might have on a client's journey. 

To truly embrace your authority, you must first understand what it entails. Authority is not merely a title or position of leadership; it's a mindset—a deep-seated belief in your abilities, knowledge, and worth. It's recognizing your unique strengths and experiences and leveraging them to make a positive impact. When you embrace your authority, you exude confidence, credibility, and authenticity—qualities that naturally command respect and influence.

One of the most significant benefits of embracing your authority is its profound impact on how others perceive you. When you project confidence and self-assurance, people are more likely to trust and respect you. They perceive you as someone who knows what they're talking about, someone worth listening to and following. This perception can open doors, create opportunities, and pave the way for success in both personal and professional endeavours.

Moreover, embracing your authority empowers you to shape perceptions actively. Instead of being at the mercy of how others see you, you become the architect of your own narrative. You can define who you are, what you stand for, and what you can achieve. By consistently demonstrating your expertise, integrity, and leadership, you can influence how others perceive you in a positive light.

However, embracing your authority is not always easy. Many people struggle with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, or fear of judgment, which can hinder their ability to step into their true self. They may downplay their achievements, second-guess their decisions, or avoid leadership roles. But by embracing your authority, you can overcome these obstacles and unleash your full potential.

So, how can you start embracing your authority and shaping perceptions? Here are some practical steps to help you get started:

1. Know Yourself: Take the time to reflect on your strengths, values, and goals. Understand what sets you apart and what you bring to the table. A great tool to help you achieve this is by daily journaling.

2. Build Confidence: Cultivate self-confidence by challenging yourself, setting achievable goals, and celebrating your successes. Remember, confidence is contagious—it inspires trust and respect in others.

3. Hone Your Skills: Continuously invest in your personal and professional development. Get a coach, do a programme, attend a training. Stay curious, seek new opportunities for learning and growth, and strive to become the best version of yourself.

4. Communicate Effectively: Master the art of communication—both verbal and non-verbal. Practice active listening, articulate your ideas clearly and confidently, and tailor your message to your audience (something we go deep on in my online course, Speak Like A Pro Online).

5. Lead by Example: Lead with integrity, authenticity, and empathy. Be a role model for others, inspire trust and confidence, show up, and demonstrate your commitment to excellence in everything you do.

6. Embrace Feedback: Welcome constructive feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Use it to refine your skills, overcome challenges, and become a better leader.

7. Stay True to Yourself: Above all, stay true to who you are and what you believe in. I call it 'your true north.' Believe me, authenticity is the cornerstone of effective leadership and influence.

In a nutshell, embracing your authority is not about dominating others or seeking validation—it's about owning your worth, standing tall in your truth, and inspiring others to do the same. You can shape perceptions, influence outcomes, and create meaningful change by embracing your authority. So, I challenge you to step into your power, embrace your authority, and watch as it transforms how others see you—and how you see yourself.