Why self-reflection is important

In December, I relocated from Washington state back to the Austin, TX area. I'd like to say I am in transition, but the truth is I'm unemployed. But, I'm grateful for this time in transition and here's why.

One of the things that I have always tried to do in my career is take time every week to reflect on me and how I showed up at work. What was my impact on the people I interacted with throughout the week? How did my behaviors and actions drive the behaviors and actions in others? Sadly, towards the end of my time in my previous job I got away from this. And, I had to admit this to myself and to others. In fact, I said exactly that to my peers on my leadership team and that I needed to get back to this habit.

We talk a lot about psychological safety and how we need to create that space for others to speak freely without fear of retaliation. I'd like to think that I did this all the time, but the reality of it is that I did not. And, that's why self-reflection is so important. You do better when you know better. Self-reflecting on my former role and how I performed in it revealed this to me. Hurtful revelation? Yes, but absolutely necessary.

I try to stay true to myself and for those of you who know me, know that I'm not the least bit lacking on confidence or a high level of self-esteem. However, I am thankful that when I have moments of clarity about myself (like this one) and how I can do better, I gladly accept the fact that I need to self-correct. As my mom used to say, "Get over yourself. It ain't about you." Sometimes, you just have to step down a rung or two just to level-set. It may even require you to ask for a do-over.

So, take some time out to connect with yourself. Self-reflect on your actions of the day and honestly identify where you could have done better. I promise you that you'll learn something about yourself that will have a profound impact on how you treat yourself and others.