Why are some speakers, teachers, and authors considered masters at what they do? What transforms their work into what we often call “art”? In many cases, it comes down to one quality: authenticity.
When communication is both skillful and sincere—when the speaker is not just informative but genuine—it elevates the experience for the audience. But that raises a deeper question: Is authenticity alone enough to make a message valuable? Or does the final say rest with the audience and whether the message resonates with their own values?
Authenticity vs. Performance
Over the years, I’ve heard speakers who seemed polished, rehearsed, and confident—yet something essential was missing. Their words aligned with their personal brand or message, but they didn’t connect. Why? Because authenticity is more than presentation—it’s about purpose, values, and presence.
In contrast, I once sat near the front row of a talk given by Henry Kissinger around the year 2000. He spoke on the Vietnam War to a group of business professionals. Though a global figure, his message felt impersonal and transactional. There was little evidence of personal values, no meaningful connection to the audience, and no spark of authenticity. It was, frankly, forgettable.
A Masterclass in Authentic Communication: Stephen R. Covey
That same year, I had a much different experience—one that left a lasting impact on how I view communication.
In 1990, I spoke at the same church event as Stephen R. Covey, just months after the release of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Before the meeting began, we sat together and spoke casually. I had heard that Covey was different in private than in public—that the man behind the scenes didn’t always match the powerful figure on stage.
But in our brief conversation, I found him calm, respectful, and quietly confident. He was authentic. When it was his turn to speak, everything about his demeanor changed. He became magnetic—his energy, voice, and presence filled the room. He didn’t use notes, yet he delivered a message rich in clarity, conviction, and connection.
Covey understood his audience and tailored his language to reflect their values and shared experiences. His body language was measured and intentional, almost like a conductor guiding a symphony. His communication wasn’t just effective—it was transformational.
Why He Stood Out
People have speculated about what made Covey so compelling: his bald head, his wardrobe, his spontaneous delivery, or his command of data and storytelling. All of these played a role—but I believe his real strength was credibility. Covey believed in what he said. He was aligned with his message and his mission. And that kind of integrity is impossible to fake.
His book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, continues to influence millions. From “Be Proactive” to “Sharpen the Saw,” his framework empowers individuals to live with intention, align their values with action, and lead with authenticity.
A Final Reflection
This article was originally tied to a book I wrote that has since been removed from major retail platforms. While the publishing journey for that particular book hit a roadblock, the core message remains essential—and is now carried forward more fully in my newest work.
I’ve left this post here not only to honor the influence of Stephen Covey but to emphasize how important authentic communication is to leadership, personal development, and how we connect as human beings. I believe that messages still matter—especially when they come from the right place.
