Trust is the foundation of leadership—but it’s tested most when pressure is high. In the Heart of a Leader module from the Personify Leadership Core Program, leaders are taught to lead with clear intention: to act in the best interest of others and stay aligned with their values. Authenticity is not just about being “real”—it’s about showing up in a way that reflects who you are and what you stand for, even in difficult moments.

When stress rises and uncertainty creeps in, teams begin to look to their leader for cues. This is when trust is either reinforced or quietly eroded. The Heart Module challenges leaders to ask, “What signals am I sending?”—through tone, posture, presence, and action. If those signals match a leader’s stated intention, it builds stability and confidence. If they don’t, even small gaps in behavior can shake a team’s sense of safety.

Leaders who are aware of their signals and take time to reflect before acting are more likely to stay in alignment. When team members feel that their leader is grounded, honest, and consistent—even in high-stakes moments—they feel safer, more motivated, and more willing to speak up. That emotional safety is key to team engagement and performance. As the module teaches: people don’t just hear your intention—they feel it.

Of course, no leader gets it right every time. When trust is strained, it doesn’t have to stay broken. Leaders have many opportunities for making things right—starting with listening fully, owning the impact, and clarifying your true intention. Leaders who take responsibility and follow through with consistent actions don’t just repair relationships—they deepen them.

In times of pressure, your authenticity becomes your greatest tool. Teams thrive when they can trust that their leader’s values won’t disappear under stress. Leading with intention, acting with integrity, and staying present in the hard moments—that’s how authentic leaders build lasting trust.

~Michelle Cummings

Founder, CEO and Chief Creative Officer

Personify Leadership