The Power of Self-Awareness in Leadership
By VICKY BROWN
Your Brain’s Built-in Leadership Tool
Here’s something cool – there’s actually a part of your brain called the Default Mode Network that’s specifically designed for self-reflection. Think of it as your brain’s very own leadership development center. And when we actually tap into it? That’s when the magic happens.
Research shows that leaders who develop self-awareness make better decisions and handle their emotions more effectively. And let’s be honest – who couldn’t use a bit more emotional regulation during those challenging days at the office?
The Real Science Behind Mindfulness (No Woo-Woo Here!)
Now, I know what you might be thinking – “Oh great, another guru telling me to meditate and journal my way to enlightenment.” But stick with me, because this is where it gets really interesting.
Harvard Medical School researchers discovered something amazing: when we practice mindfulness and self-reflection, we’re literally rewiring our brains. We’re not just feeling calmer – we’re physically strengthening the parts of our brain responsible for:
- Keeping our emotions in check (goodbye, stress-induced decisions!)
- Making clearer decisions (even in tough situations)
- Understanding ourselves better (your team will thank you for this)
- Learning and adapting faster (because leadership is a constant learning game)
The really exciting part? MRI studies show these changes happen in just eight weeks of consistent practice. That’s not mystical thinking – that’s pure neuroscience at work.
“…But here’s where most people get stuck – they think these future traits are something they’ll develop “when they have time” or “once things settle down.” That’s not how it works. If you want to be known as someone who develops others, you need to start having development conversations now.“
Let’s Talk About Those Pesky Blind Spots
Here’s something every leader needs to hear: we all have blind spots. Yes, every single one of us. They’re those sneaky habits or patterns that can trip us up without us even realizing it.
Maybe you’re holding onto tasks because “no one else will do it right” (hello, perfectionism!). Or perhaps you’re checking in on your team every hour because deep down, you’re worried about failure. These blind spots don’t just affect you – they ripple through your entire team, shaping everything from trust to communication.
The Mirror Test: What Your Team Is Really Telling You
Want to know how you’re really doing as a leader? Look at your team. They’re like a mirror reflecting your leadership style back at you. If they’re always waiting for your permission, or if they seem hesitant to share new ideas, that’s not about them – that’s feedback about your leadership.
For example, if your team members rarely speak up in meetings, ask yourself: Have I created a space where different opinions are truly welcome? When was the last time someone disagreed with me, and how did I handle it?
Whether you’re an entrepreneur jumping into a leadership role, a seasoned business pro with new HR responsibilities, or just starting your HR career – we’ve got the right path to guide you through your HR hurdles.
Check out the Leaders Journey Experience. This online education platform holds the LJE Masterclass, HR SimpleStart Academy and HR FuturePro Academy.
Not sure where to start – take the quiz!
The Time Capsule: Your Leadership Future Starts Now
Let’s try something I do with my clients – it’s called the Time Capsule exercise. Imagine yourself five years from now. What kind of leader do you want to be known as? The one who spots potential in people before they see it themselves? The one who’s created a team where creativity flourishes?
Here’s the catch – and I see this all the time – people think they’ll develop these traits “when things calm down” or “once they have more time.” But leadership doesn’t work that way. If you want to be known for developing others, you need to start those development conversations today. If you want psychological safety, you need to start responding differently to mistakes right now.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Your journey to becoming a more self-aware leader doesn’t require a complete personality overhaul. Start small:
- Take five minutes each morning for reflection
- Notice your emotional reactions during challenging meetings
- Ask your team for honest feedback (and really listen)
- Pay attention to how your actions impact others
- Keep a quick leadership journal (even if it’s just quick notes on your phone)
Ready to Transform Your Leadership?
Listen, I’ve spent over twenty years working with leaders, and I can tell you this with absolute certainty: the biggest breakthroughs in leadership come from within. The science proves it, and I’ve seen it transform countless leaders and their organizations.
Spread the word
MORE HUMAN, MORE RESOURCES
310.308.7680 option 1
hello@idomeneoinc.com