Self-aware leaders know what they bring to the table.

Know thyself is an old Greek maxim that’s been used across the centuries. It taps in to the some of the biggest questions we have about ourselves like who are we? Or better yet, who do we want to be?

By looking into ourselves, we can begin to gain self-awareness of who we are and the impact we can have on the world. Self-awareness provides an opportunity for people to understand the different traits, emotions, and values that constitute who we are. When examined through the lens of leadership, studies have shown that self-awareness allows us to be our most authentic selves and enables us to express our own thoughts and convictions at work.

Self-awareness requires us to really know what makes us who we are. It can help us identify our areas of strength, and those that challenge us.

If we lack self-awareness, do we really know if we are performing at our best? Studies have suggested that a lack of self-awareness inhibits decision making skills and can further effect performance of those we are leading.

When leaders are self-aware, there is a tremendous impact on those they work with as self-aware leaders appear to be viewed in a more positive light. It’s linked to a whole range of business outcomes such as effective leadership, employee satisfaction and team cohesion.

Self-aware leaders know what they bring to the table. When we know our own skillset and values, we are better equipped to make smarter decisions as leaders. Through self-awareness we can facilitate personal growth and be a source of confidence and courage.

Recent changes in the way we work have highlighted the importance of leadership, with great leaders able to bring distant team members together and provide a clear channel of communication a company’s work and values.

Here are the top five ways to improve your own self-awareness as suggested by those who embrace it.

1.??????Start a reflective practice

A reflective practice provides a time and space for a person to take time out of their day and look inwards. In can feel a bit strange at first but a reflective practice can teach us so much about ourselves. It can take many different forms, like a journal, but it’s important to find a practice that works for you

2.??????Be aware of your own strengths and weakness.

Leaders who are self-aware know how to play to their strengths and compensate for their weakness. Understanding your strengths areas allows you to better focus on areas that are best suited to you. Being mindful of areas of improvement allows us to seek help from other leaders and mentors

3.??????Ask for feedback.

Even the greatest leaders know when to ask others for their input. Asking others around us, no matter the seniority level, can teach us things about ourselves that we may not be aware. A self-aware leader knows they don’t have all the answers.

4.??????Don’t stop asking questions.

Be curious! We don’t always know the answer and that’s ok, what’s important is that we don’t stop trying to find out. Only by asking questions of ourselves and those around us, can we begin to understand ourselves better

5.??????Be intentional.

Not only is it important to know who you are, but where you want to go. When thinking about a possible career change, applying for a new job, or even speaking up at a meeting, ask yourself if this action speaks to the person you want to be.

In a world that keeps asking for our attention, don’t forget to check in with yourself.

You’ll be amazed at what you can find.

About the Author & Brave Feminine Leadership

Brave Feminine Leadership would like to thank Guest Editor Cristian Pinto-Hayes for this article.

Brave Feminine Leadership is on a mission is to inspire 100,000 women by helping senior professional women create more rewarding opportunities without second guessing themselves so they can maximise their salary and their impact.

For more leadership inspiration visit us at bravefeminineleadership.com where you can also tune into our Podcasts and hear conversations with Melissa Hamilton (she/her) and amazing authentic global leaders.