Chapter 9: Beyond the Image: Recentering Leadership Identity Through Creative Practice

This chapter explores the relationship between leadership identity, image, and creative practice. Drawing on theories of transformational leadership, personal narrative, and identity development, the author examines how leaders can realign their internal values with their external presence through creative engagement and critical reflection. The chapter begins by establishing the theoretical foundations of leadership identity formation, examining how worldviews, frames of reference, and personal narratives shape a leader’s sense of self. It then contrasts transactional and transformational leadership approaches, arguing that transformational leadership fosters greater personal growth and creative development. The author shares personal experiences transitioning between leadership styles and discusses how creative practices – from visual arts to movement-based activities – can help leaders recenter their identity, prevent burnout, and develop resilience. The chapter concludes with practical exercises incorporating somatic breathing, creative expression, photo elicitation, and reflective writing to support leaders in developing authentic presence and aligning their internal narrative with their projected image. This work contributes to leadership studies by highlighting the importance of creative engagement in fostering leadership development and preventing identity-image dissonance.