As a Fractional COO, I constantly witness the power of self-awareness in driving operational efficiency and success in teams...!
What is Self-Awareness?
Self-awareness is the ability to step outside yourself and objectively see your strengths, weaknesses, motivations, and biases.
It's like being a cartographer surveying your own professional landscape. Mapping your way as you go.
The 10,000ft View: Detached Observation
Imagine yourself analysing a map, unemotionally examining its features: mountains, rivers, plains.
This is your 10,000ft view – objectively observing your actions and reactions.
You acknowledge a tendency to get defensive in meetings (the "mountain") for example, but without self-blame.
The 20,000ft View: The Bigger Picture
Zoom out! Now you see the entire map – the mountains, plains, and beyond to the broader environment.
This is your 20,000ft view, encompassing the bigger picture of your career and life.
You may start to recognise that defensiveness, might stem from a deeper insecurity about your skills.
Applying Self-Awareness in Business Operations
Self-awareness is a superpower for a Fractional COO and operational leaders alike. Here's how it benefits you and your team:
- Improved Decision-Making: By understanding your biases, you make more objective choices.
- Enhanced Communication: Self-aware leaders foster open and honest communication.
- Stronger Team Dynamics: Identifying your triggers helps you manage conflict and build trust.
- Increased Operational Efficiency: You can streamline processes and identify areas for improvement.
The Path to Self-Awareness
Developing self-awareness takes practice. Here are some tips:
- Seek Feedback: Actively solicit honest feedback from colleagues and mentors.
- Journal Regularly: Reflecting on your day can reveal patterns in your thoughts and actions.
- Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness exercises help you observe your emotions without judgment.
Remember:
Self-awareness is a journey, not a destination.
Even the most self-aware leaders have moments of emotional response.
The key is to acknowledge these moments and refocus on the bigger picture.
Ready to Take Flight?
Self-awareness empowers you to reach new heights in your career. If you're looking for guidance on this journey, a Fractional COO can be a fantastic option!
Let's Connect!
Want to share your experiences with self-awareness...? Find me on LinkedIn at Dan Holloway and drop me a DM about it 😉
