Welcome back for another episode of Equipped for Purpose, today we are continuing to look at leader identity. This is the first section underneath the heading of discovering distinctiveness.

In episode eighty-three, we broke down what discovering distinctiveness is, and where we are going with the leadership portion of this podcast over the coming year. So if you missed that you can go back and check that out.

In episode eighty-five we discussed Who/What defines you (defining your source). If you haven’t listened to that episode yet, I recommend that you pause this episode and go listen to that first because it is the first part of this significant discussion.

In that episode, we got into the specifics of who/what defines you by looking at Hindrances to Leader Identity (Perfectionism & Imposter Syndrome), Defining Your Source (Faith, Personal Values or Internal Convictions, External Influences), Significance of Alignment, How You Get There, and Contrasting Sources. In addition, we discussed the six reasons why understanding leader identity is significant because it serves as the foundation for effective, consistent, and authentic leadership.

In this episode, we are continuing to discuss leader identity by looking at what is the definition, and what it looks like in practice.

Discovering Distinctiveness (What is the Definition?)

What does a leader’s identity entail?

I know that there is an obvious question floating around after discussing the source of identity definition, which is, what does a leader’s identity entail? What are the things that make up the bulk of this definition? As I have stated before, with a lot of the discussion we have here there are many answers, however, what I am attempting to provide for you is a foundation to build from. I desire that you have a starting point to begin your prayerful conversations with the Holy Spirit, as well as with someone you trust to help guide you. There are four components that I believe offer a firm foundation for your identity as a leader.

Character

The first is character. Character by definition refers to the set of moral and ethical qualities that define a person and guide their actions, behaviors, and decisions. It encompasses attributes such as integrity, honesty, accountability, empathy, humility, and resilience. To be someone of good character, especially as a leader and a disciple, involves consistently aligning one’s actions with ethical principles and moral values. Here are some practical aspects:

• Accountability
  • This is about taking responsibility for your actions and decisions. Own your mistakes, seek to correct them, and learn from them. Encourage feedback from others to grow as both a leader and a disciple.
• Empathy
  • This is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Empathy is showing genuine care and concern for others’ well-being. As a leader, listen actively to your people, and as a disciple, extend compassion to those around you.
• Humility
  • Next is humility, which is a modest view of one’s own importance. Humility recognizes that leadership is about serving others and not about personal gain. As a disciple, follow Jesus’ example of humility and servitude.
• Resilience
  • Resilience is the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties and stay steadfast in the face of challenges. As a leader, inspire your people to persevere, and as a disciple, trust in God’s plan even during tough times.
• Respect
  • Respect is showing consideration and valuing others. Treat others with dignity and honor their perspectives. Create an inclusive environment as a leader and as a disciple, and honor God by respecting His creation.

Being of good character as a leader and a disciple means embodying these qualities and influencing others positively through consistent ethical behavior and a strong moral compass. It involves ongoing self-reflection and growth to ensure that your actions uplift and inspire those you lead and serve.

Integrity

The second component is integrity. Integrity by definition is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles that you refuse to change. It involves doing the right thing even when no one is watching.

Integrity has a few components of its own. The first is consistency, which is maintaining honesty and ethics in all situations, whether in public or private. As a leader, you set an example by adhering to your values consistently. The second is trustworthiness. Here you are building trust with your people by being dependable and keeping your promises. The third is courage, and this is standing by your principles, even when it’s difficult or unpopular.

Integrity is one of the values that I hold dear, and always has been. I have talked previously about putting action to values otherwise they are just fancy words. To put purpose into practice is more than just a set of values—it’s a blueprint for action, a guide to living out your mission with intentionality and integrity. These principles bridge the gap between what you believe and what you do, ensuring that every step you take aligns with your calling. Grounded in a commitment, your fundamental values transform ideals into impactful realities, fostering growth and meaningful change in every area of life.

With putting purpose into practice, here is how I look at integrity.

We are unwavering in our commitment to doing what is right, guided by our mission to equip, develop, and empower others through authentic discipleship and leadership. In every action and decision, we prioritize truth and transparency, knowing that our integrity shapes our ability to lead with purpose. We hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards, always speaking truthfully and being impeccable with our word, even when no one is watching. Our actions reflect our deep commitment to living out our values in every aspect of life.

Vision

The third component is vision. Vision by definition is the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination or wisdom. It involves having a clear and compelling picture of what the future should look like.

When you are visioning as a leader you are providing first, clarity. You are clearly articulating a future goal that sets direction that inspires and motivates others. Secondly, when you are visioning you are thinking strategically. Strategic thinking is about developing strategies to achieve the vision and anticipate potential challenges. You can think of this as the roadmap that will be used to get you to the destination set in your vision. A map has many routes, one that is preferred, but allows for other possibilities if obstacles arise that necessitate a change. The third component of vision is inspiration. You are inspiring others to see the possibilities and work together toward achieving a shared vision.

Mission

The fourth component is mission. Mission by definition is a formal summary of the aims and values of an organization, individual, or group. A mission defines the purpose and primary objectives that guide decision-making.

If we think practically about mission we are thinking of purpose, alignment, and motivation. Purpose means there is a clearly communicated and understood purpose for the direction you are going, thereby giving meaning to the work. Alignment simply means that actions and decisions align with the mission ensuring consistency and focus. A mission can be used as a motivational tool to keep yourself and others driven and committed to the overarching goals.

As I already stated, this isn’t a complete list, but by understanding and embodying these components—character, integrity, vision, and mission—you’ll establish a strong foundation for your identity. These elements will help you inspire trust, guide your people effectively, and maintain your focus on achieving long-term objectives.

Roles vs. Identity

Now, I want to take a minute to discuss roles versus identity. This is an easy thing to get confused about because I am sure you have done this before just like I have. I spent twenty years in the Army, and it was very easy to get wrapped up in that role as a soldier and start to confuse that with my identity. After retiring, I started in a role leading within a church. I also hold the role of husband, father, and grandfather. None of those make up my identity, but are roles that I carry my identity into.

Think for a moment about the roles you have held in your life. Have you ever seen those as who you are? It’s an easy thing to do because often one of the first questions I get asked by people is, what do you do? How would you answer that? When you do there is an immediate association with identity and a perception of the person that works in that profession.

If you look at the foundational components of identity that we just discussed—character, integrity, vision, and mission—you don’t see anything in there about roles. You will, however, see that you will carry those components and attributes of each into whatever role you accept. Disciple, disciple-maker, or leading anywhere, you need to know your identity going in or risk grabbing hold of one that is defined for you by a source you likely don’t align with.

It is crucial that you understand the difference between filling a role and your defined identity. You are going to take on many roles in your life, and you should understand how they fit with your mission and the Great Commission. However, know that your identity is not defined by a role, you set the tone for how a role is fulfilled by the identity that is already defined and you are carrying in.

Why do this?

Why take the time to know the definition? Well, I think that is pretty clear simply by looking at roles versus identity. Yes, these are some foundational components, but you are going to need to have a conversation with the Holy Spirit. Like all aspects of discipleship and leadership, this isn’t a one-time conversation where you get the answers recorded, check the box, and never look back. This is a conversation that will happen over and over as you grow and transform to become more like Christ.

Knowing who you are, and what you carry into a role is significant. Why take the time to know the definition of your identity? Because you will be able to lead from a place of clarity and confidence. Your role as a leader, in whatever capacity, carries tremendous responsibility that ought to be taken seriously. Therefore, you ought to know who you are and what you carry.

Questions to Consider

How would you articulate your leadership identity in one sentence?

How do your core beliefs shape the way you lead?

Display Your Leadership (What Does It Look Like in Practice?)

How Identity Informs

Let’s switch gears from the definition to putting the definition into practice. We talked about some of the foundations of defining identity, but how does identity inform your actions, your behaviors, and your choices? This question is directly related to character, integrity, vision, and mission.

Actions

When you look at what makes up your identity there is going to be a correlation to your actions.

Your character, formed by your identity, dictates actions rooted in moral and ethical standards. When you have a strong identity characterized by humility, empathy, and courage, you will take actions that reflect these traits. For instance, in a crisis, a leader with integrity and compassion will prioritize the well-being of their team while addressing the issue head-on.

Integrity, as a key component of your identity, informs actions that are honest, transparent, and aligned with ethical standards. Leaders known for their integrity act consistently, ensuring that what they say aligns with what they do.

Your identity is closely tied to your vision for the future. Actions you take are directed toward realizing that vision. This might include setting clear goals, allocating resources efficiently, and motivating your people toward common objectives.

Actions informed by your mission focus on fulfilling the core purpose you have been given by God. This can be seen in actions like community engagement, ethical practices, and aligning people’s efforts with the broader mission.

Behaviors

There is also a direct correlation to your behaviors as well.

Consistent behaviors such as respect, and responsibility are manifestations of character. Your identity as a person of strong character leads to behaviors that promote trust and reliability.

Behaviors stemming from integrity include open communication, admitting mistakes, and standing firm on ethical grounds just to name a few. When your identity is rooted in integrity you’ll behave in ways that reinforce confidence in your moral leadership.

Vision informs behaviors such as strategic planning, innovation, and proactive problem-solving. Your identity as a visionary drives behaviors that continually push people toward progress and improvement.

Behaviors that align with your mission include commitment, dedication, and consistency. Your identity as a mission-driven individual ensures that your behaviors consistently reflect and reinforce the mission.

Choices

Now, let’s look at the direct connection with choices.

Decisions made by you are often a direct reflection of your character. Your identity guides you to make choices that uphold your ethical principles, even when faced with pressure to compromise or take shortcuts.

Choices made with integrity often involve doing what is right over what is easy or expedient. For example, you might choose to reject a lucrative but ethically questionable opportunity, reflecting your commitment to integrity.

Vision-oriented choices are about prioritizing long-term benefits over short-term gains. Your identity shaped by a clear vision ensures that every decision contributes to building the future you envision, such as investing in the development of people.

Choices guided by your mission are often about balancing profitability with purpose. For instance, you might choose to pursue sustainable practices, even if you require a higher initial investment because your mission prioritizes social responsibility alongside financial success.

Not just theory

Your character ensures that your actions are ethical and that your choices build trust. Integrity ensures that your behaviors are consistent and transparent, reinforcing your credibility. Vision drives actions and choices that are forward-looking, ensuring growth and alignment with future goals. Your mission provides the foundation for actions, behaviors, and choices that serve a greater purpose, ensuring you stay aligned with your core objectives.

Your identity deeply rooted in character, integrity, vision, and mission serves as a guiding framework for your actions, behaviors, and choices. This alignment promotes a leadership style that is ethical, trustworthy, purposeful, and visionary, creating a positive and lasting impact.

This isn’t just a theory, it’s the basis for you to think about putting into practice who you are and what you bring to the table.

Applications

There are many practical applications to knowing your identity and what it looks like in practice. We can look at mindset, communication, conflict resolution, training future leaders, and team building as a few areas of application. Each involves embedding the values of character, integrity, vision, and mission.

Mindset

Your identity shapes your mindset, fostering a growth-oriented, resilient, and optimistic approach. When you have a strong identity focus on continuous learning and development, you’ll see challenges as opportunities to grow, and encourage people to adopt the same perspective. By grounding your mindset in character and mission, you’ll remain steadfast in adversity, inspiring people to persist and adapt. A vision-driven identity will help you maintain a positive outlook, motivating people even during tough times.

Communication

Identity also informs communication styles that are clear, transparent, and aligned with your vision and mission. Leaders with integrity communicate honestly, again fostering trust and openness. By sharing your vision and mission regularly, you’ll ensure that you’re aligned with your long-term goals, and creating a sense of purpose and direction. Character-driven identity emphasizes empathetic listening and understanding, making communication more inclusive and supportive.

Conflict Resolution

Knowing who you are and what you bring to the table will help you to navigate conflicts ethically and constructively. Leaders with strong character resolve conflicts with the aim of maintaining relationships. By staying true to your values, you’ll ensure that resolutions are consistent with your ethical standards. By aiming to maintain relationships, conflicts are resolved with vision and mission in mind, which results in an outcome that supports long-term objectives.

Equipping, Developing, & Empowering Future Leaders

Knowing who you are and what you bring to the table is critical in developing future leaders who are equipped, developed, and empowered to lead with integrity and purpose. When you use your knowledge and experience to provide future leaders with the tools and resources necessary for success, you set them up to be well-prepared for their future roles as leaders. By modeling character, integrity, and mission-oriented leadership, you’ll be mentoring and developing emerging leaders, encouraging their growth in both skills and ethical grounding. When you value empowerment and trust people, delegate responsibilities effectively, and encourage autonomy, you help future leaders build confidence and decision-making capabilities.

Team Building

Knowing your identity allows you to build cohesive teams by aligning team dynamics with core values, vision, and mission. Leaders build team culture that emphasizes ethical behavior, mutual respect, and shared values, creating a strong foundation for collaboration. Leaders set goals that are aligned with vision, ensuring that every team member understands how their contributions advance collective objectives.

We are going to talk about these topics specifically in upcoming episodes, but I wanted to highlight at least some applications here to drive home the significance of understanding your identity—who you are and what you bring to the table.

Incorporating these applications ensures that your leadership is not only effective but also sustainable and ethically grounded. This creates a positive and empowered environment, cultivating long-term success and growth.

Questions to Consider

How does your identity as a leader show up in everyday interactions?

What’s an example of a decision you made that reflects your leadership identity?

Conclusion

Summary

Okay, I have gone on long enough. We looked at identity explored through four key components: character, integrity, vision, and mission. Character encompasses moral and ethical qualities such as accountability, empathy, humility, resilience, and respect, which guide your actions. Integrity involves honesty and adherence to strong moral principles, ensuring you consistently do the right thing. Vision is about having a clear, compelling picture of the future that inspires and guides strategic planning. Mission defines your purpose and aligns actions with overarching goals. We made the distinction between roles and identity, noting that roles are temporary, while identity shapes how these roles are fulfilled. Understanding and embodying these elements will help you lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose, aligning your actions, behaviors, and choices with your defined identity.

Challenge

Here are the six questions from across both parts of the leader identity conversation, and I will have them in the show notes as well.

• Are you letting external validation or internal convictions shape your leadership identity?
• How do scripture and faith play into defining who you are as a leader?
• How would you articulate your leadership identity in one sentence?
• How do your core beliefs shape the way you lead?
• How does your identity as a leader show up in everyday interactions?
• What’s an example of a decision you made that reflects your leadership identity?

Sit with these questions, prayerfully consider each of them, and be honest with yourself. Once again, I challenge you to step out boldly—share your thoughts with me! Whether it’s through an email or a DM on social media, I’d love to hear from you. You’ll find all the ways to reach me in the show notes.

I can’t wait to connect and continue the conversation with you!