Donald Trump brags that he used a $1 million inheritance to create $10 billion net worth. CEOs like Valeant's Mike Pearson hype their quarterly results. Whatever happened to humility as a virtue for leaders?

Trust is the foundation of American capitalism. Unfortunately, many activist investors have damaged that faith. The staying power of activists will depend on whether they are able to regain our confidence through sustained financial performance, heightened innovation, and greater long-term investments, not just immediate gains.

Many companies are making important contributions, but CEOs have less leeway than ever to make bold investments in their communities. Due to growing pressures from short-term shareholders and increasing regulations, companies have been severely constrained in making targeted, long-term investments that drive social change.

The pharmaceutical industry's rationale that it needs high prices to afford the research has been turned on its head by Valeant's business model of spending less than 3 percent on research & development (R&D) and paying less than 3 percent in taxes.

"Faking it" is the antithesis of authentic leadership. Following this advice is the most likely path to failure as a leader. You cannot act like a leader until you go through the hard steps of developing yourself from within.

As you open yourself, others will open up as well, thus beginning a virtuous circle of vulnerability. Embrace those moments to share and be vulnerable. Now you have the power, and no one can take it from you.