Growth requires self-reflection. Do you actually deliver the goods? Could you have blind spots?
Structured self-reflection questions keep leaders on track.
Eye-opening self-reflection questions:
Initiative:
- How frequently do you step up when help is needed?
- What is your track record for taking on new challenges?
- How frequently are you seeking permission to act?
Vulnerability/Courage:
- What do you say when you screw up?
- What personal stories do others know about you?
- How good are you at confronting tough issues?
Open-mindedness:
- How well do I adapt when situations change?
- What’s my ratio of questions to statements?
- What do I do when situations are confusing or ambiguous?
Humility:
- How freely do you honor others?
- How well do you seek and receive help?
- How frequently do you express gratitude?
Influence:
- How do people feel after spending time with you?
- Who is better because of your influence?
- What do you see in yourself that others might emulate?
Energy:
- Are you an energizer or an energy suck?
- Do you make life easier or harder for others?
- How well do you practice self-care (energy management)?
Learning:
- What are you learning from books, conversations, experiences?
- How do you respond to new ideas?
- What are you learning from failure?
Trust:
- How much authority do you give others?
- How frequently do you expect people to solve their own problems?
- Do you establish accountability without being up in everyone’s business?
Insight:
- How well do you understand your colleagues and team members?
- Can you see a connection between day-to-day operations and long-term vision?
- Do you have an idea of what makes your team members light up?
Tip: Adapt these questions for meeting openers.
What new categories can you add to the above self-reflection questions?
What self-reflection questions would you add to the above lists?
A little book about humility.
John David Mann and I give readers an opportunity for structured self-reflection in our new book, The Vagrant. There’s hope for you if you occasionally see yourself in the story.