What does it truly mean to lead authentically while prioritizing self-care?
In this powerful episode of Humans of Authenticity, Vy Le sits down with Shawn Boynes, CEO of the American Counseling Association, to explore how embracing authenticity, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care can transform leadership.
Shawn shares his journey of self-discovery, the challenges of leadership, and a defining moment that shaped his confidence—a conversation with a board member who told him, “Shawn, just be yourself.” That single sentence became a turning point, freeing him from expectations and empowering him to lead with confidence, vulnerability, and purpose.
3 leadership lessons from Shawn Boynes
- Authenticity unlocks leadership potential – Shawn’s defining moment came when he realized he no longer had to code-switch or fit into preconceived molds. By fully embracing himself, he stepped into his true leadership power.
- Self-care is a leadership strategy – Burnout is real, and setting boundaries is necessary for sustainable leadership. His daily practices—including morning meditation and gratitude journaling—help him stay grounded.
- Saying ‘No’ creates space for growth – After years of saying ‘Yes’ to every opportunity, Shawn learned the power of strategic ‘No’s,’ allowing others to step up while reclaiming time for himself.
This episode is a must-watch for association executives, nonprofit leaders, and professionals navigating leadership challenges. If you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, burnout, or the pressure to conform, Shawn’s story will inspire you to step into your full, authentic self.
