So you’ve found yourself in a leadership position, huh? Leader, manager, coach, teacher…the title doesn’t really matter. The meaning is the same:
Your role involves the formation, guidance, and growth of others.
That isn’t something to be taken lightly. The impact of leaders on the lives of individuals is profound. You probably have some life experiences that can attest to that.
Truly great leaders are so intentional, thoughtful, and productive in their guidance and encouragement that their positive impact truly lasts a lifetime. Hopefully, you’ve had at least a couple of those leaders who’ve left this incredible mark on your story.
That being said, not all leaders are created equal.
Some are just, well, crappy. They act for themselves rather than the team. They tend to focus more on production or accolades rather than individual and team growth. These leaders (if you can rightfully call them that) can have an equally strong impact on those under their supervision, just not in a positive way.
So, the million dollar question…
How do you become a GREAT leader?! One who changes their team and organization for the better?
Three simple words: Start with yourself.
It’s impossible to lead others well if you aren’t first taking ownership of your own growth. Being the leader of our own personal growth requires a deep and comprehensive understanding of ourselves.
If you don’t know WHO you are (at your core, in this stage of your journey) and what YOU value (your values, not those of your friends, family, coworkers, etc.) it is difficult to lead yourself toward growth.
In other words, self-knowledge is the basis for self-leadership.
I encourage you to take some time to check in and learn about yourself. Think of it as a pulse check to assess how you are doing in this current season of life.
For those that are thinking, “I’m good! I’ve done self-reflection work before!” I’d highly recommend doing it again.
The truth is, each new season in life brings a new set of circumstances that impact our growth and overall personal well-being. This is an exercise that bears repeating again and again as we move throughout our life.
As you reflect, here are a few things to focus on:
- Where are you going?
What goals are you currently pursuing? Is your career moving in a direction that you enjoy and desire? How about your personal life? Are you making time for relationships, hobbies, and personal (non-professional) goals?
- What do you value?
What motivates you to grow? Where do your values come from? How did they originate? Who or what is propelling your forward?
- How’s your alignment?
Are your goals and growth trajectory aligned with your values? Are the habits required to achieve your desired growth healthy or unhealthy? Are there areas of your life that are being neglected?
Not sure where to start? I’ve got you covered! This free Wheel of Life Assessment breaks down our lives into 8 foundational categories. By taking this quick assessment, you’ll be given a snapshot of your life’s current balance.
Give it a try!
Stay tuned for more! For the rest of this month, we’ll be getting practical with self-leadership tips and strategies that will help you take greater ownership over your own growth (and ultimately become a stronger leader for others!)
Article was contributed by: Maria Lees, Team Writer with Sarah Boxx
