Samenvatting

This qualitative research aims to discover to what extent Authenticity as trait is a starting point for leadership qualities Vulnerability, Self-Confidence, and Resilience, and enforced by equine assisted coaching (EAC), for now and with the upcoming generation of leaders. EAC is a form of coaching with horses being essential to be used as mirror and metaphor for the coached. This research offers a new perspective on authenticity as leadership trait by further exploring its definition, the correlations with vulnerability, self-confidence, resilience and how this is enforced by EAC. The current trend in leadership shows an increased importance of soft skills. Leaders are expected to take a role as coach or guide. People look for a connection with their leader and that the leader does no longer have to meet the skills of the team. It works better to also be more tangible as leader and no longer just a status symbol.