Top performers are self-aware

At CG Infinity , we take personal development and mentoring very seriously. An important part of this continuous process is performance appraisals and feedback sessions. I looked closely at the latest results and tried to figure out what really separated the top performers from others. Unsurprisingly, they all had a higher degree of self-awareness than others. So, what is self-awareness and how does it help individuals in their careers?

Self-awareness is the foundation of effective leadership and personal development. It is the ability to accurately recognize and understand one's own emotions, thoughts, and values, and how they impact one's actions and decisions. Developing self-awareness is essential for career growth, as it helps you gain a deeper understanding of your strengths and weaknesses, set meaningful goals, and make informed career decisions.

Developing self-awareness can also help you to communicate more effectively with others. By understanding your thoughts and emotions, you can more clearly articulate your thoughts and ideas to others. This can be particularly important in team settings, where effective communication is key to success.

There are several ways that you can develop self-awareness as part of your career growth. Some strategies include:

1. Engaging in regular self-reflection: This can involve keeping a journal, setting aside time each day or week to reflect on one's thoughts and emotions, or participating in activities such as meditation or yoga that promote mindfulness.
2. Seeking feedback from others: Asking for feedback from colleagues, supervisors, or mentors can be a valuable way to gain insight into one's own strengths and weaknesses. It is important to be open to constructive criticism and to use it as an opportunity for growth.
3. Taking personality or values assessments: There are a variety of tools and resources available that can help you understand your personality traits and values. These can include online quizzes, career assessments, or working with a coach or therapist.
4. Engaging in personal development activities: This can involve taking courses or workshops to develop new skills, reading books or articles on personal development topics, or engaging in activities that promote personal growth, such as volunteering or traveling.

In short, developing self-awareness is an essential part of your career growth. By investing in self-awareness, you can set yourself up for long-term success in your career.