Leadership is not defined only by strategy or results—it’s shaped by self-awareness. I spend a lot of time thinking about this topic. I train leaders on the topic of self-awareness and yet I struggle to stay at the top of my self-awareness game. I have made many mistakes in my career due to a self-awareness stumble.
I believe that leaders who recognize how their behaviors impact others are more effective, resilient, and trusted. Conversely, those who overlook their blind spots often create ripple effects across their teams, leading to disengagement, turnover, and missed opportunities.
The Harvard Business Review has called self-awareness the “meta-skill of the 21st century.” Yet studies consistently show that while 95% of people believe they are self-aware, only about 10–15% actually are. That gap creates a silent risk inside organizations.
Why Blind Spots Matter
Blind spots are patterns or tendencies that others see clearly, but we miss. For leaders, these may include interrupting team members, dismissing new ideas, or avoiding difficult conversations. While small in isolation, these behaviors accumulate over time—eroding trust, stifling innovation, and creating unnecessary tension. This is at the root of many teams I work with who are struggling to maintain a solid and cohesive footing.
Unchecked blind spots do more than affect team morale; they influence business outcomes. When employees feel unseen or undervalued, performance and creativity decline. Leaders who take time to identify and address their blind spots often discover new pathways to connection and breakthrough.
Tools for Greater Self-Awareness
Practical strategies help leaders see beyond their own lens:
- DISC Assessments: Offer insight into personality-driven behaviors and potential friction points.
- Feedback Loops: Regular, structured input from direct reports and peers highlights blind spots early.
- Journaling and Reflection: Writing down reactions to recurring challenges uncovers patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed.
- Coaching and Mentoring: External perspective accelerates growth and accountability.
Self-Awareness Checklist
Ask yourself:
- Do I actively seek feedback from diverse voices?
- What situations consistently frustrate me—and what might they reveal about me?
- Am I aware of how my past experiences influence my present leadership style?
- Do I adjust my leadership to different personalities, or expect them to adjust to me?
Moving from Blind Spots to Breakthroughs
Developing self-awareness is not about perfection—it’s about progress. Leaders who invest in uncovering blind spots not only improve their own effectiveness but also empower their teams to thrive. By turning blind spots into breakthroughs, leaders build stronger cultures, unlock innovation, and set the standard for authenticity in the workplace. True leadership begins with the willingness to look inward. When was the last time you took a good look at your self-awareness score? What you discover may be the key to your next breakthrough.