Self-Awareness as the First Step

Self-Awareness: The Cornerstone of Personal Development and Emotional Intelligence

Self-awareness, often labeled a management buzzword, is far from a passing trend. It's essential for anyone aspiring to manage or lead effectively. Without self-awareness, how can you truly set a good example for your team?

What is Self-Awareness?

Self-awareness is the ability to evaluate your role, actions, and outcomes in daily interactions. It involves being present, recognizing your own feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and understanding how they affect your brand and how others perceive you.

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In 2013, I had been in sales for several years and decided to move into management. Attending a leadership conference hosted by the National Association of Women MBAs in Phoenix was a pivotal moment for me. Sara Canaday’s keynote spoke directly to my journey as a self-proclaimed workaholic focused on personal achievements. Her book, You According to Them, and her coaching program, including a 360-assessment, offered invaluable insights. Despite my initial fixation on the few constructive feedback comments, that process was crucial in raising my self-awareness and preparing me for leadership.

The Benefits of Being Self-Aware

Know yourself. Know your worth. Self-awareness is a skill that can be learned, developed, and improved. It provides a well-rounded perspective in both personal and professional contexts.

For instance, I used to compartmentalize my personal and work selves. This stemmed from a lack of confidence in being my authentic self at work when I first moved into management. Over time, through reflection and journaling, I gained the confidence to show up as my authentic self, making me a more effective leader.

Self-awareness allows you to:

• Identify Strengths and Weaknesses: Understand your capabilities and areas for growth.

• Improve Decision-Making: Make informed decisions that align with your core values. (Refer back to our previous post on developing core values.)

• Enhance Relationships: Foster stronger connections by being aware of how your actions affect others.

Ready to Dive Deeper?

Understanding the importance of self-awareness is just the first step. If you’re ready to explore the "how" and take actionable steps to enhance your self-awareness and emotional intelligence, I invite you to book a discovery call with me. Together, we can develop a personalized plan to help you achieve your personal and professional goals.