Developing Self Awareness

Senior managers landed their C-suite jobs because they delivered strong results and possess political savvy. However, many of these same leaders could not tell you the combination of practices that led to their success. A  recent study reveals the answer is found in their use of soft skills.

…researchers found that harsh, hard-driving, “results-at-all-costs” executives actually diminish the bottom line, while self-aware leaders with strong interpersonal skills deliver better financial performance MORE

No surprise here! But what combination of soft skills? The answer is found in emotional intelligence. Therefore, self awareness is the key to enhancing these soft skills. Self awareness is one aspect of emotional intelligence, which is something everyone capable of improving. Consequently, the most successful managers process self awareness using 360 feedback. The following questions should help.

Self Awareness Exercises

Emotional Intelligence growth is possible but requires awareness and action on your part. Answer the following questions to better understand your self awareness. These 15 elements can be measured using an emotional intelligence tool.

A. Self Perception

1. Self-Regard: Do I have a healthy self-regard? 
2. Self-Actualization: Do I know who I really am, what I really want, why I want it and how am I going to achieve it?
3. Emotional Self-Awareness: Do I know exactly what I am feeling when I am feeling it?

B. Self Expression

1. Emotional Expression: Am I in control of how I express my feelings?
2. Assertiveness: Do I have the willingness and ability to act in the face of aversity?
3. Independence: When I act, am I free to follow my instinct regardless of my circumstances?

C. Interpersonal

1. Interpersonal: Do I have valuable relationships? Have I defined what I want from my relationship with others?
2. Empathy: Do I take the time to listen and understand what others are feeling?
3. Social Responsibility: What do I care and act upon that is greater then myself?

D. Decision Making

1. Problem-Solving: Do I process decisions in a way that leads me to the right choices?
2. Reality Testing: How do I objectively evaluate an emotional thought against real life?
3. Impulse Control: Am I able to subdue impulses in order to achieve long-term goals?

E. Stress Management

1. Flexibility: Am I capable or willing to bend or flex to change or modify my behavior?
2. Stress Tolerance: How able am I to relax and stay composed when faced with difficulties?
3. Optimism: How hopeful and confident am I about the future or the successful outcome of my difficult circumstances

Self Awareness Activities

In conclusion, there are two things we must know if we are to ever get close to the board room:

1. An accurate assessment of one’s current reality, and
2. A vision for who we really are, what we really want, why we want it and how we plan to get there

The self assessment is a good first start. For more help look here.