Understanding Self Awareness

A variety of definitions of self-awareness have been used by researchers over the last 50 years. Some define it as the ability to observe our inner world, while others define it as a temporary state of self-consciousness. Others define it as the gap between how we see ourselves and how others see us. So, before we could move on, we need to first synthesise these findings and develop an overarching definition.

Two broad categories of self-awareness emerged repeatedly in the studies I examined. The first, which we call internal self-awareness, refers to how well we understand our own values, passions, aspirations, fit with our environment, reactions (including thoughts, feelings, behaviours, strengths, and weaknesses), and impact on others. Internal self-awareness has been found to be positively related to job and relationship satisfaction, personal and social control, and happiness, while negatively related to anxiety, stress, and depression. 

The second category, external self-awareness, refers to understanding how other people perceive us in terms of the same factors mentioned above. Now, it may seem natural to believe that being high on one type of awareness implies being high on the other. But in reality, there is no correlation between the two.

So, what exactly is self-awareness? According to Psychologists Shelley Duval and Robert Wicklund, “The ability to focus on yourself and how your actions, thoughts, or emotions align or do not align with your internal standards is referred to as self-awareness. You can objectively evaluate yourself, manage your emotions, align your behaviour with your values, and correctly understand how others perceive you if you are highly self-aware.”  

Harnessing Self Awareness For A Better Future

With the changing demography and structure of the fabric of people becoming adults, self-awareness is a magic pill that everyone needs. It not only makes you a better version of yourself but also helps a leader make better choices. 

Leaders who are self-aware have the ability to set realistic expectations. It liberates us from our preconceptions and biases and aids in the development of stronger relationships. It improves our ability to control our emotions.

It assists leaders in understanding what they bring to their roles. Understanding a leader’s strengths in both industry skills and knowledge as well as personal characteristics enables them to perform their responsibilities within an organisation more effectively.

The future should be defined by a benchmark set within that refers to what is outside rather than an outside-in approach of looking at who is doing what and then aligning oneself. 

So, do you want to be happier, have more influence, make better decisions, and be a better leader? Then self-awareness is the most important muscle you need to develop. Join us this ICW and explore how we can harness self-awareness to build a better future.

Register Now For Free.

About The Speaker