The leader people see, and follow is the leader you first develop inside yourself. The challenging work of defining who you are as a leader, what you stand for, and how you relate to others is an ongoing process because the world around you changes, and so do you. Therefore, you must continually add to your leadership knowledge and skills, as well as your own self-understanding so you can improve and adapt as a leader.
A leader’s day is spent thinking about others and helping them to be their best, but if you don’t do the same for yourself you soon will have much less to give others. Much like we advocate leaders looking after themselves first, we also advocate leaders improving themselves first.
It is a fact that your organization will not grow past your leadership skills. It is only through strong self-awareness that a leader can identify and embrace when and how they are holding back their organization. This is an inside job. You may hear concerns from others in subtle, or not so subtle ways, but no one can make you accept the reality, you need to embrace it internally before you will act to address the issue. Improving and adapting to stay ahead of your organization is not a one-time thing, it is an ongoing process no matter how big or small your organization, or how experienced or inexperienced a leader you are. Things change – with the world, with your organization and with you personally.
As part of leadership coaching there are often intake assessments that can include 360 reviews as well as self-assessments which can include topics like Vision, Mission, Values, Strengths and Weaknesses, and areas for Development. A thorough review of these topics from a personal perspective and in alignment with the organization determines the coaching plan. None of this information is static. In fact, updating on a regular basis is what a growing leader needs to commit to. This is the inside work that creates and improves the leader that others see and follow.
Additional Reading:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2023/08/25/cultivating-effective-leadership-through-personal-development/?sh=7d43aa9c6de3
https://sage-summit.ca/10-signs-your-leadership-may-be-all-about-you/
https://sage-summit.ca/the-transition-step-1-taking-stock/
