Real Leaders Are Self-Aware

I listened intently as one of my executive leaders had to take a call from a key client. Evidently things had gone sideways and the client was frustrated and upset. With the skills of a hostage negotiator my friend was able to empathize, listen, understand and reassure. With a measured and sincere tone, he was able to put back on track the clients’ concerns.

I’ve witnessed before his high-level of self-awareness. Leaders with a high-degree of self-awareness recognize how their feelings and responses affect them, other people, and their job performance. Leaders with high self-awareness can work under tight deadlines and with demanding clients. They contain and manage ego impulses. Some of their personal mantras include:

* Calm	* Personal
* Steady	* Confident
* Reassuring	* Understanding
* Pleasant	* Candor

Key characteristics:

Leaders with self-awareness understand his or her values and personal beliefs. They don’t waiver. They can turn down short-term appointments that do not match their long-term goals and pursuits.
They practice candor and the ability to frankly discuss their strengths and weaknesses as a leader.
They recognize their emotions impact those they work with. They are not perfect, but they try their best to bring positivity and good moods to the workplace.
Self-aware leaders can also be recognized by their self-confidence. They have a strong sense of their capabilities and resist second guessing themselves. They move daily with bold attempts toward their desired outcomes.

It is your ability as a leader to recognize and understand your emotions and moods matter. You set a tone for each interaction. You can steer your emotions in a more intentional manner that inspires others and settles down frustrated clients or team members.

I asked my coaching executive, “How did you handle that upset client so well?” His answer, “I always keep in mind these four words: calm, warmth, sincerity and confidence.”

Here’s to your self-awareness and personal success this week!