Want to instantly become a better leader? Do this one thing.
Those who have very little self-awareness blunder through life and react badly if you point this out to them. And we know how destructive these people in leadership positions can be.
We likely also know some who are overly self-aware. They are often nervous types and can end up in a loop of sensitivity, people-pleasing and anxiety. Not a great option either.
How do we find a good middle ground and why would we want to?
Well, the WHY is easy:
- We want to be respected.
- We want to be trusted.
- We need to understand and know ourselves better if we are going to lead well.
As leaders these things are vital for our teams to work with and not against us. As leaders we want to be removing our team’s blocks and easing frustrations, not adding to them. Self-awareness helps us do that.
Want to instantly become a better leader? Understand and manage your own behaviors and emotions.
Here’s the HOW.
Four surefire ways to be more self-aware:
Daily reflection – at the end of each day think about what you got right and what you could have done better, and how
Analyze your emotions – they are super messengers telling you where problems lie. The guilt, anger, fear, or other reaction you felt today, is saying, “Please look here.” Use it as a flag marking an area that you need extra help and support in.
Find yourself a neutral and observant mentor – not somebody above or below you in pecking order, just someone who is around often enough to notice you and how you are being. Spend time reflecting with them on how things are going, and on your behavior and its impact on others. Listen!
Get feedback from your team as often as possible – be open to hearing things that create an emotional reaction. Learn to delay that reaction and reflect. As questions such as: How could I have helped you more? What do you need me to do for you? How would you like to handle this?
By understanding and managing your own behaviors and emotions, you instantly become a better, more effective leader. It’s that simple!
For more valuable insight, check out my new leadership book Certainty: How Great Bosses Can Change Minds and Drive Innovation.
