Self-Reflection

      To be an effective and successful leader, one would have to look at themselves as a mirrored reflection. Self-reflection is a modest and powerful method a leader can possess, which can improve your performance. Self-reflection can be a difficult process; it allows you to look honestly at yourself in areas improvement is needed the most. You would have to reflect and answer the following; who you are as a leader, what purpose you will envision as a leader, how can you be authentic as a leader. Once you have the answer, then improvements on strengths and weaknesses can be worked on.

                                                 Who Am I as a Leader?

Who am I? This would be the first question to answer before knowing what type of leader you are. The qualities as an individual would pour out in his or her leadership qualities. I am a humble and respectful person who can adapt to change. I am gracious and I do not lead by the environment but from my inner being. I am compassionate, understanding and listen to what is said and not said. I am organized and my level of energy is high, I focus on developing my strengths and diminish my weaknesses as well as those of others. I have self-trust and keep an open mind, I let go, always forgive and learn from mistakes. My personality is big, full of laughter, smiles and kindness I spread wherever I go to anyone I see. Every day is a different day in which I look at in a positive way.

What is My Leadership Purpose?

My purpose of leadership is to be an effective leader by setting high standards for my team for values and performance, validating contributions and efforts to ensure effective communication and performance for a respectful, trustworthy working environment and performance in a trusting, respectful work environment. (Eugenio Pirri, 2017)

      How can I remain authentic? As a leader, you will gain a great amount of respect and it will be easy for others to agree with you when you are authentic. There are various challenges of being a leader that may have a negative impact from time to time, or all at once depending on how an individual handles stress. Authenticity can be overwhelming and suppressed due to conflict or chaos, fear of rejection and those individuals that are too judgmental. There are also circumstances that will also challenge your character to show your real self. (Lalita Ramon, 2012)

To remain an authentic leader, acknowledge the negativity and rise above it, remember misery loves company. Learn to be more than just yourself, go that extra mile, honey attracts more bees than flies. Be self-aware and genuine, lead with your heart and know your strengths. Lastly, cultivate transparency in the workplace be honest with others as well as yourself and choose the tools and skills that support your progress, focus on results and aim for success. (Kevin Kruse, n.d.)

       This course has given me the tools to strategize on how to be an authentic leader by using the skills I already possess. I will maintain my true self, continue to motivate and inspire those around me. I will continue to uplift and inspire those to spread their wings to fly reaching the heights of success.