The Underrated Leadership Practice That Could Transform Your Career

A Leadership Journal. What kind of journal? Yep, a Leadership Journal.

?Why a Leadership Journal Matters

As a new or emerging leader, you’re likely juggling a lot—meeting deadlines, managing teams, and trying to hit your goals. With all these responsibilities, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and lose sight of your personal growth. That’s where a leadership journal comes in. Think of it as your personal playbook—a tool that helps you reflect, track progress, and sharpen your leadership skills. But this journal isn’t just about writing down what happened each day. It’s about taking control of your growth by understanding that you have ultimate responsibility for it.

What Is a Leadership Journal?

A leadership journal is a dedicated space where you document your thoughts, experiences, and feedback as a leader. It’s more than just a journal; it’s a powerful tool for self-reflection and to see your growth. By regularly journaling, you can identify patterns in your behavior, recognize areas for improvement, and have a chance to celebrate your successes.

Why It Works

The practice of journaling is grounded in the NLP principle of cause and effect. In simple terms, this principle suggests that for every action, there is a reaction. As leaders, we often see the outcomes of our decisions, but we don’t always reflect on the causes—our thoughts, behaviors, and actions—that led to those results. By keeping a leadership journal, you’re training yourself to recognize this cause-and-effect relationship, allowing you to make more informed decisions and become a more effective leader.

Who It’s For

A leadership journal is particularly helpful for new leaders, emerging leaders, and new managers who are still finding their footing. It’s an excellent way to build self-awareness, track your progress, and stay aligned with your leadership goals. If you’re someone who values personal growth and wants to take control of your development, this is a tool you shouldn’t overlook.

How to Create and Effectively Use Your Leadership Journal

Ready to start your leadership journal? Here’s how to get going:

1. Choose Your Medium - Decide whether you prefer a physical notebook or a digital journal. A physical notebook can be more personal and tactile, while a digital journal offers convenience and the ability to easily search and organize entries. Choose what feels right for you.

2. Set a Routine - Consistency is key. Set aside a few minutes each day—ideally in the morning or evening—to write in your journal. It doesn’t have to be lengthy; even just a few sentences can make a difference. The goal is to make journaling a regular part of your routine.

3. Use Prompts to Get Started - If you’re not sure what to write about, start with prompts. Here are a few questions to get you going:

• What went well today, and why?
• What challenges did I face, and how did I handle them?
• What did I learn today that I can apply tomorrow?
• How did my actions today align with my leadership goals?

These prompts help you focus on the cause-and-effect relationship in your leadership journey.

4. Reflect on Your Entries - Take time to review your journal regularly. Look for patterns, recurring themes, and insights. This reflection process is where the real growth happens. It allows you to connect the dots between your actions and their outcomes, helping you become more intentional in your leadership.

Ready to Implement? Start Your Leadership Journal Today

If you’re serious about growing as a leader, a leadership journal is a must-have tool. In the next 48 hours, I challenge you to start your own. Pick a notebook or create a digital space, set a routine, and begin documenting your journey. By understanding the cause and effect of your actions, you’ll be better equipped to lead with purpose and confidence. Don’t wait—start today and see the difference it makes in your leadership journey.