Employees shouldn ' t simply survive the working day. Instead, they should feel that their work matters, that they ' re contributing to something meaningful, and that they can leave work without carrying the burden of excessive stress or emotional exhaustion.
Authentic leadership requires both courage and vulnerability
Authentic leadership, according to Theresa, balances the head, the heart, and the hands.
The head represents knowledge and logical decision-making. The heart represents values, purpose and emotional connection. The hands represent action and implementation. Effective leadership requires all three elements to work together.
Despite years of leadership experience, Theresa also acknowledged that vulnerability remains uncomfortable. Yet she argued that allowing people to see uncertainty, acknowledge challenges, and admit when things aren ' t going well creates stronger relationships and more authentic connections.
Burnout as a turning point
Like many professionals, Theresa has experienced burnout in the workplace, particularly in 2022. Back then, she continued telling herself that everything was fine, even as the warning signs became increasingly obvious.
Eventually, she made the difficult decision to step away from work and prioritise her wellbeing. This became a turning point in both her professional and personal life. Theresa believes the behaviours leaders model can influence those around them. Children, colleagues and team members often mirror what they see. When leaders refuse to acknowledge stress or ask for help, those patterns can quickly become embedded in an organisation ' s culture.
Supporting others begins with being present
Supporting colleagues doesn ' t require extraordinary expertise or formal mentoring programmes, according to Theresa. Often, simply being available, making time for conversations, and creating opportunities to share knowledge is enough.
Being fully present during interactions is important, particularly when providing feedback. Rather than viewing feedback as criticism, she encouraged participants to see it as a gift and an opportunity for growth.
Ultimately, careers aren ' t built through titles alone. They ' re built through resilience, relationships, purpose, and a willingness to keep learning through every season of life.
42 ISSUE 60 AUGUST 2026 / WWW. AFMA. ORG. AU