Leadership Lens: Being Self-Aware is a Superpower 

One of the most powerful things a leader can know is themselves. 

Self-awareness means understanding what we naturally bring to the table, both the strengths that help us lead well and the limitations that can get in our way. The interesting thing is that they are often two sides of the same coin. 

I am an energetic, people-focused person. In leadership, that has served me well. I build relationships quickly, enjoy connecting with people, and work hard to create environments where people feel valued. Those strengths can contribute to stronger morale and retention. 

But there is another side. Because I am naturally drawn to people and relationships, I can sometimes drift from the mission. I may spend too much time on what feels good for people in the moment rather than what moves the work forward. My strength does not disappear. I simply have to know when it needs a guardrail. 

That is the power of self-awareness. 

Knowing ourselves is not an excuse for our behavior. “That’s just how I am” should never become permission to ignore how our actions affect others. Instead, self-awareness gives us the opportunity to lead ourselves before we lead anyone else. 

It can also make us more gracious leaders. When I recognize that I have strengths and limitations, I am more willing to assume positive intent in others. The person who approaches the work differently from me may not be difficult, disengaged, or wrong. They may simply bring something to the table that I do not. 

Great teams do not need everyone to think, communicate, or lead the same way. They need people who know what they bring, recognize where they need others, and are willing to adjust when necessary. 

Self-awareness does not require us to become someone else. It helps us become a better version of who we already are. 

Janice Stockman
AASB Director of Leadership Development