What is a Self-Aware Leader?

Why is self-awareness one of the most desired and practical leadership skills? What does self-awareness actually mean? How do you even know if you are aware? Without diving into non-dualism, we will focus on the self-awareness of the one who thinks, feels, and behaves.

Self-awareness allows us to build meaningful, impactful relationships with others, but most importantly, ourselves. A leader should have self-awareness on the radar at all times. How often do you reflect on how you do things? When was the last time you asked for feedback? If you are blind to your emotions, thoughts, and behaviours, you will never see the impact they have on others and the environment around you.

Self-awareness can not be or taught! Academics have concluded that awareness is not a matter of IQ, but EQ, or emotional intelligence. It goes far deeper than this, but we will remain in the realms of EQ.

I recommend exploring The Johari Window. It is a technique that helps people better understand their relationship with themselves and others. It was created by psychologists Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham in 1955.

Grab a pen and paper and jot down three key strengths, development areas, and your values. Please take note of how long it takes you to gather this information. Self-aware leaders can real these off because they know themselves, where they are going and how they will make an impact.

Tip

Feedback – I know it can be uncomfortable to hear sometimes, but we are missing incredible opportunities to grow, develop, and become more aware. Seek feedback at every level, from a range of sources, and remember – digest, don’t take it personally, and reflect. Expand the open area and reduce the blind!