A Leadership Perspective: The Power of Self-Awareness

Rhonda Williams on August 17, 2026

When I first moved into leadership roles, I focused on what many leaders focus on: gaining knowledge, getting results, and accomplishing goals. I believed that if I worked hard, prepared well, and delivered outcomes, I would be an effective leader.

Over time, however, I learned that leadership is about more than what we accomplish. It is also about how we show up, communicate, and affect the people around us.

As I received feedback from colleagues, I began to recognize some of my blind spots. I discovered that good intentions do not always create positive results. Being knowledgeable and competent is important, but effective leadership also requires self-awareness.

Self-awareness is the ability to understand ourselves—our emotions, behaviors, strengths, weaknesses, values, and the impact we have on others. When we lack self-awareness, we may unintentionally damage trust, create misunderstandings, or reduce our effectiveness without realizing it.

One thing I have noticed is that I am naturally more self-aware when I am in a new situation, meeting new people, or facing unfamiliar challenges. In comfortable, familiar settings, I have to work harder to stay aware of how I am showing up and how I affect others.
Researcher and organizational psychologist Dr. Tasha Eurich describes two types of self-awareness:
Internal self-awareness is understanding:

  • Your values
  • Your motivations
  • Your strengths
  • Your weaknesses
  • Your emotional triggers
  • Your goals and aspirations

External self-awareness is understanding:

  • How others see you
  • The impact of your words and actions
  • How your leadership style affects others
  • Whether your intentions match your impact
  • The feedback you receive

Both forms of self-awareness help leaders make better decisions, build stronger relationships, and create more positive outcomes.

Ways to Strengthen Self-Awareness

Take Time to Reflect
Before or after important conversations, meetings, or events, ask yourself:

  • What was my intention?
  • How did I show up?
  • What emotions was I experiencing?
  • What impact did I have on others?
  • What would I do differently next time?

Reflection helps turn experience into learning.

Pay Attention to Yourself
Throughout the day, notice your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Ask:

  • What am I feeling right now?
  • How am I reacting?
  • What behaviors are helping me succeed?
  • What habits might I want to change?

This practice helps identify patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Seek Feedback
Feedback is one of the best ways to discover blind spots.
Consider:

  • Asking for feedback after meetings or projects
  • Using surveys or quick check-ins
  • Reviewing employee engagement data
  • Talking with trusted colleagues
  • Working with a coach or mentor

Remember, feedback is information that can help us grow.

Be Present
Self-awareness increases when we are fully engaged in the moment.
Try:

  • Slowing down and taking a few deep breaths
  • Listening to understand rather than to respond
  • Paying attention to verbal and nonverbal cues
  • Staying curious about what others are experiencing
  • The more present we are, the more aware we become.

Practice Self-Compassion
Learning about ourselves can sometimes be uncomfortable. When you receive difficult feedback or recognize areas for improvement, respond with kindness rather than harsh self-criticism.

Self-awareness is not about being perfect. It is about learning, growing, and becoming more effective over time.

Final Thoughts

Developing self-awareness takes practice, patience, and a willingness to learn. The more self-aware we become, the better able we are to lead with intention, humility, authenticity, and compassion.

In the end, leadership is not only about achieving results. It is also about understanding ourselves well enough to bring out the best in others.

Further Reading

  • Insight by Dr. Tasha Eurich
  • The Self-Aware Leader by John C. Maxwell
  • Optimal: How to Sustain Excellence Every Day by Cary Cherniss and Daniel Goleman

Author:
Audrey Bohanan, MHR, BA
Executive Coach


Shared from JUNE 2026 Issue of Thunderbird Leadership Consulting ELEVATE – Tbird’s Hub for Practical Leadership Insights.

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