In this video, Chris Stevenson, the founder of The Empower Group, emphasizes the importance of self-awareness for personal and professional success. He defines self-awareness as the clear perception of one’s strengths, weaknesses, motivations, beliefs and behaviors, which includes both internal awareness (how you see yourself) and external awareness (how others perceive you). High levels of self-awareness contribute to better decision-making, communication, leadership, confidence and relationship building.
Stevenson outlines three strategies to improve self-awareness:
- Understanding Personal Values and Goals: He suggests that just as organizations define their values, individuals should also identify their guiding principles. An exercise like “peaks and valleys” can help reflect on high and low points in life to determine core values. Establishing clear personal goals is also crucial. For Stevenson, aspiring to be a servant leader and an effective communicator shapes how he infuses his values into his consultancy and management of health clubs.
- Reflection: This involves aligning daily behaviors with personal values and goals. Stevenson advocates for both formal and informal reflection, such as journaling or mental reviews, to ensure behaviors align with personal priorities. Being mindful in the moment helps maintain this alignment, enhancing decision-making and reactions in real-time.
- Seeking Feedback: Obtaining external perspectives is vital to verify self-perceptions. Tools like Myers-Briggs or DISC assessments, as well as formal 360 evaluations, provide insights into personality traits and workplace behaviors. Equally important is feedback from trusted individuals who can offer constructive criticism, helping to refine self-awareness further.
Chris Stevenson concludes by stressing that improving self-awareness leads not only to professional effectiveness as a leader and team member but also to personal happiness and fulfillment, ultimately adding value to one’s organization and life.
