In my work I often have the opportunity to observe leaders in action.  I notice over and over again, that the leaders who are most successful are the ones who consistently demonstrate emotional intelligence (EQ.) According to Daniel Goleman, bestselling author and expert, EQ consists of five factors:  knowing one’s emotions, managing emotions, motivating one self, recognizing emotion in others, and relationship management.   

Each of these factors has competencies and skills attached to them, but I believe that the catalyst for all of them is self knowledge – understanding your own motives and the impact that you have on others.   

This creates a paradox for developing your leadership because it means that the journey to powerful leadership begins with a focus on self.  It may seem self absorbed to spend time examining your own attitudes and actions.  Yet I notice that the more my clients learn about themselves, the more they are able to read others, experience empathy and self manage during difficult situations. 

One way to increase self awareness is to take time for reflection every day.  When you pay attention to your thinking patterns and inner dialogue, you become more aware of your own biases, motivations and self-imposed obstacles.  This self knowledge gives you more skill in managing yourself and influencing others in stressful or ambiguous situations.