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Leadership Begins with Self-Awareness

Leadership Begins with Self-Awareness
Knowing others is intelligence;
Knowing yourself is true wisdom;
Mastering others is strength;
Mastering yourself is true power ~ Chinese proverb
Probably one of the least discussed leadership competencies, 'selfawareness' is possibly one of the most valuable in Modern times.
The leaders who actively work towards understanding themselves, not only become more effective, but also more emotionally intelligent; a skill considered essential for success.
Self-awareness is the key to tap into your power to influence others and relate to them in the best way.

In Leadership lessons by Mark Zuckerberg recently, he emphasised on the importance of 'making your own development a priority' for better leadership. He mentioned how he hired a coach to improve his leadership skills.

Self - awareness, even though intangible, is a step by step gradual process to know the 'self' and requires self reflection, and genuine willingness to change. Here are five steps to become more self-aware:

Keep learning about 'self' - Take time to pause and introspect your thoughts, beliefs, perception, interpretations and challenge them from time to time.

Become aware of your own emotion and reaction and the impact it can have on others. Also connect with your team to take an authentic feedback about yourself.

Adapt 'internally' to change - As nothing is static in life or business world, keep adapting yourself internally to the changes in outside environment. Keep developing your craft always, it's a life long process of learning.

Tap into inner resources - We are usually not aware of our capacity for patience and empathy. Tap into this inner power and show compassion and true kindness towards people.

You will notice, people will do anything for you; as people go out of their way, only for someone they respect and admire.

Unleash other's potential - As a leader this is your most important job. The leaders who are in charge of their own mind, emotions and reactions, help to guide others too, into self-realisation.

Help people tap into their inner power and potential so they can do the same for someone else and the ripple effect will be really huge.
Unlearn and Accept - To learn and adapt anything new, first step is to 'unlearn' as usual. Let go of the chains of any intellectual or emotional baggage, shed any old beliefs, concepts or notions that might not serve you and others now. Make space for new.

Accept and move forward with new self-awareness.
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