As an advisor to leaders, I often describe my job as similar to being a quarterback coach. I watch a lot of leaders make a lot of decisions, just like a QB coach watches their players make a lot of throws. I see leaders at their best, making decisions that deliver results, and I see them in low moments, drifting off course from their vision.
All leaders make less-than-best choices. Perfect isn’t possible for any of us. What great leaders do differently is check themselves. They have an uncanny ability to notice when their own actions need improvement. Here are four areas where strong leaders stay self-aware:
- Attitude. Effective leaders are in touch with their feelings and choose their demeanor. They work to minimize others’ exposure to their bad moods. They demonstrate a high level of consistency. They show up calm, collected, and levelheaded, and they receive difficult news well. This earns them trust and access to the truth. Don’t underestimate how much people value a positive attitude.
- Discretion. The best leaders never speak poorly about someone else in front of others. Period. They choose to coach and mentor performance, provide constructive criticism, tackle tough topics, and they do so in a way that respects the dignity and humanity of everyone they encounter. This type of absolute discretion is rare, and it speaks volumes about the leader who can practice it.
- Confronting reality. High-performing leaders work hard to see circumstances as they truly are. They resist spinning stories to fit their desires. Instead, they seek to fully understand barriers, resource constraints, challenges, and pitfalls. Then, they get going with the planning, strategy, and decisions needed to overcome adversity and move forward. Talented leaders (and talented teams) talk openly about problems, knowing that’s the best way to resolve them.
- Practicing hope. There’s nothing more inspiring than a leader acknowledging difficulty and then providing a clear path forward. Hope energizes. Great leaders see possibility. They clarify the path to results, guiding the team in navigating the journey. Their sincere belief in the capabilities of others and the opportunities available is contagious.
Take time to check yourself. Does your attitude promote engagement? How well do you practice discretion? Can you see challenges clearly? Are you able to bring hope when it’s needed? Self-awareness with these essential aspects of leadership earns you the opportunity to influence and inspire.
Founded in 2004, Lead Star is the company behind the best-selling books SPARK, Leading from the Front, and Bet on You. Lead Star helps professionals reach new levels of success through its innovative leadership development programs.
