Leading from Identity, Not Just Your Role

Stay Forth Leadership Podcast

In Episode 4 of our H2 Leader Summer Series, Alan and Jonathan hit on one of the most liberating leadership truths: “Who you are matters more than what you do.” In a world that obsessively equates titles, achievements, and performance metrics with worth, it’s easy to lose sight of the unshakeable identity and purpose beneath the surface.

Join them as they unpack:

• The difference between your role (what shows up on your org chart) and your identity (your character, values, and calling)

• Why chasing “praise, promotions, and posts” leaves you vulnerable to burnout and emptiness

• How to begin leading from who you are, not just from what you produce

• Practical first steps—daily rhythms, margin, and non­transactional relationships—that reinforce your true identity

If you’ve ever felt like you woke up and realized your career had swallowed your self-worth, this episode is for you. Press play, and start rooting your leadership in purpose, not performance.

Key Topics Covered

• Role vs. Identity: Why a job description can never define your lasting worth

• Performance Traps: How external accolades both feed and betray your soul

• Identity Anchors: The character traits, values, and deep “why” that outlast any project or title

• Practical Shifts:

  • Small daily practices to remind yourself of your true self

  • Building non-transactional friendships who “aren’t impressed” but love you anyway

  • Creating margin (walks, lunches, buffer time) to reconnect with your purpose

Reflect & Apply

Set aside 10–15 minutes with a journal or blank page, and explore these two questions:

1. Who am I becoming as a leader?

2. What core truths do I need to return to regularly?

Don’t rush—let these questions guide you toward leading from your identity, not just from your job description.