When you get ready each morning, do you think about the upcoming day? Do you mull over the meetings you have, and paperwork yet to complete? Are you paying attention to yourself? Sure, you may look in the mirror to put on your makeup or to shave, but how often do you stop to look in the mirror and reflect on how you are doing as a leader?

The Science Of Self-Awareness

Science progresses in leaps and bounds, often leaving us running to catch up and understand new discoveries. Science is steadily unlocking the secrets of how our brains work, and our understand of the ‘default mode network’ (DMN).

This DMN works when we let our minds wander. It is activated when we aren’t trying to complete some task or focus on something that needs to be completed.

Studies have linked DMN function to self-referential thoughts and daydreaming. It has also been associated with positive emotions and being open to new ideas.

Academics have argued for years that individuals and organisations are inspired to action with the creation of a vision. Developing a vision should be based on your ideal self, the ‘you’ that has a clear image of the future (Boyatzis, 2015).

How To Develop Your Vision

Attending self-awareness programs can help you realise your true potential by helping you understand how your brain works when it makes decisions. You will learn about the time needed for your brain to engage in daydreaming, and how this can fine-tune your leadership skills.

Figuring out your ideal self, including your ethical values, will increase your resilience, impact, and legacy. What do you want to be remembered for when you move on to another job, or when you retire?

How the i4 Neuroleader Model Works to Develop your Self Awareness

The first step is to take the i4 Neuroleader 360˚ Feedback Assessment online. It collects insights from people all around you—professionally and personally. You will see how your behaviours are viewed and perceived by others.

I think self-awareness is probably the most important thing towards being a champion.

Billie Jean King

Remember, leadership starts with awareness which in turn helps you develop better ethics. Ethics is critical to perform effectively as a leader and to discover who you are and what you stand for.

Don’t be afraid to look into the mirror and really think about who you are. Your life will be improved in all aspects when you understand what drives you to do better and be a better person. Whether you are a CEO, a manager at a retail store, or an aspiring tennis champion, self-awareness can help you achieve your goals.

Citations
Boyatzis, R. E., Rochford, K., & Taylor, S. N. (2015). The role of the positive emotional attractor in vision and shared vision: toward effective leadership, relationships, and engagement. Frontiers in Psychology, 6, 670. http://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00670

Originally posted on: 6 July 2017
Last updated on: 24 March 2024
Silvia Damiano

Silvia Damiano

Founder & CEO
About my Brain Institute

Scientist, educator, author, speaker, coach, award-winning leadership specialist, filmmaker and creator of the i4 Neuroleader Model & Methodology.

Silvia's scientific background and curiosity about the human brain led her to a decade long journey of research into optimal brain functioning and the application of neuroscience in leadership and daily life. Her past and current roles have uniquely prepared her for the current undertaking, that of leadership activist & change agent.

Silvia Damiano founded The About my Brain Institute in 2009, with the purpose of democratising leadership & neuroscience. She has a passionately held belief, that leaders in our 21st century global economy and their organisations must radically change long-held ideas of what constitutes effective leadership

In her ground-breaking books ‘Leadership is Upside Down’, ‘Brain-Friendly Leadership’ and the 2018 documentary ‘Make Me A Leader’, Silvia provides both compelling evidence and explores the importance of leadership in our personal and professional lives and what it takes to develop the human behind the leader.

Silvia has worked in different countries, across many industries, helping teams and organisations improve business performance. Silvia’s clients have described her as a passionate, dynamic, a highly experienced speaker and master facilitator on the topics of Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Change, Neuroleadership & Engagement.

Silvia is passionate about leaving a legacy of well-rounded leaders who can act and decide in a way that better serves humanity. Her clients include Microsoft, Australian Stock Exchange, NSW Government, VISA, Fuji Xerox and Manpower amongst many other global companies.

No Comments Yet

Let us know what you think