BLUF
Self-reflection can help you become a better leader and colleague and strengthen your leadership style to make you more effective, both at work and in your personal life.Summary
People tend to model their behaviour more on what they see than what they hear. Children, for instance, are known to be great observers of behaviour and often grow into the type of adult that has been shaped by years of observation and interaction in their environment. For example, if they grew up in a chaotic, abusive, uncertain, or aggressive environment, they risk mimicking that same behaviour. The practice of leadership is an outward expression of an individual’s internal worldview. By re-examining that worldview, we are capable of seeing an old issue with a new lens. These three simple and practical things can help measure whether leadership practices match the leader’s personality traits:
How do you feel about yourself? If you see yourself in a distorted view, everything about you could also be viewed by others through that lens, including how you practice leadership.
Ask advice from people outside your professional circle. People who know you personally are good sources of helpful feedback. Despite knowing you on a personal level, they can be good indicators of your leadership tendencies.
Have your associates anonymously evaluate your leadership. There is something unnerving about receiving an anonymous evaluation from colleagues, but their feedback might help you better understand your leadership style.
Leadership is not just about influencing others. Instead, how you come across as a leader can be a reflection of the environment that shaped you.
References
Nov 2020 HBR How to Develop Your Leadership Style
Apr 2021 BetterUp What is self-awareness, and why is it important?
Aug 2021 Develop Good Habits How to Be More Self Aware: 8 Tips to Boost Self-Awareness
Sep 2021 Forbes Can You Influence Others? Your Self-Perception Really Matters
