A Simple Method for Practicing Self-Awareness

 

To meet the demands and challenges of 21^st century, self-aware leaders are needed. That means leaders who have the willingness to look at their strengths and weakness.

 

Not easy for a leader with a dominant ego or a fast-track lifestyle. But we’re in an era in which “meeting needs” necessitates responsibility. And those who get that will become our most valuable leaders.

 

Simplify the process…

You can read volumes on the process of self-awareness. Yours truly has and will continue to write about it and work with leaders who walk its path. However, I want to share with you a short statement that will help you along in your self-assessment process:

 

“Take a look at everything that doesn’t bring you peace.”

 

That will clarify what needs to be worked on, changed or discarded. In other words, those annoying personality traits that are not only less than desirable but prevent you from excelling. 

 

Along my path…

Let me share with you a trick I use that has proved to be effective for me. I picture a silver cord across my chest, in which part of it has barbed wire. If I find myself on the receiving end of another’s tirade, I know what I need to work on by what sticks on the barbed wire. 

 

As I work on my issues, the barbed wire becomes smooth as silk. Another’s issue can no longer affect me. It simply falls away or returns to sender.

 

In conclusion…

It’s not easy to put ourselves under the microscope and examine our thoughts, motives and behaviors. However, overtime we begin to realize that it has freed us to become the absolute best version of ourselves we can be.

 

“A workplace that encourages self-awareness is an environment where
the most productive, curious, and innovative people thrive.”
~Neil Blumenthal Co-CEO, Warby Parker