Discovering Identity – The Weapon to Boost Confidence for Managers

Understanding “who I am” isn’t just philosophy—it’s a tool that empowers leaders to make confident decisions. Rising Above offers practical exercises to explore your personal identity.
Have you ever stood before your team, about to speak, yet wondered: “Who am I really in this role?” Leadership isn’t just a title—it’s how you express yourself. In Rising Above, Coach Tường Huân asserts: “Identity is the awareness of self, encompassing the traits, values, beliefs, and experiences that shape who we are.” This is the secret weapon every leader—from beginners to middle managers to senior executives—must sharpen to shine.

Chapter 1 emphasizes: understanding your identity boosts confidence, improves relationships, enhances decision-making, and helps you overcome challenges. For new leaders, this means no more trembling when facing the team. Middle managers will communicate more effectively with superiors and subordinates, avoiding the swirl of meaningless tasks. Senior leaders can leverage identity to build credibility and leave a unique mark on their organization.

The story of Trí, a 32-year-old chemical engineer, is a living testament. Trí once immersed himself in the lab, but it was while caring for his wife in the hospital that he realized his true joy came from inspiring others. He pivoted to training, uncovering his real identity: a teacher, a motivator. Leaders are the same—you may excel in your field, but without grasping your identity, you’ll remain a “hired hand” in your own role.

Rising Above provides a method to define identity through six elements: key experiences, interests, strengths, feedback from others, personal values, and future vision. Try this: today, ask three colleagues what strengths they see in you. If they say “patience” while you feel impatient, it’s a sign to adjust. For new leaders, this builds a trustworthy image. Middle managers can enhance communication. Senior leaders can reshape their personal brand within the organization.

The book isn’t just theory. It urges you to write your own story: “Who am I, and who do I want to become?” For instance, a middle manager might write: “I’m a connector, always seeking ways to unite the team for shared goals.” Once you grasp your identity, every decision—from rejecting an ill-fitting project to motivating staff—flows naturally. Are you ready to unlock this “weapon” to boost your leadership confidence?