Self-reflection – the key to effective leadership
Most authorities on leadership development understand the importance of assisting managers and leaders to engage in self-discovery and self-reflection. Recorded statements from philosophers about the need for self-awareness and reflection for those in leadership positions goes back thousands of years to ancient philosophers and teaches like Confucius, Socrates, Plato, Jesus and Mohammed. However, research has shown that self-reflection is possibly a manager’s least favourite activity. While much has been written on the need for self-reflection and for selfunderstanding by managers, little is available that points the way forward for managers on how to commence self-reflection, what are the processes involved and how one commences on the road to self discovery.
In this short article, I will endeavour to assist you to commence learning about yourself. There are two good reasons why managers and leaders should be concerned about learning about themselves. First, while some people, because of personality flaws, like narcissism, Machiavellianism and psychological personality disorders should never be allowed to lead others, most people can improve their leadership potential and performance by engaging in self-reflection. Second, research has shown there is no better bedrock for effective leadership than a secure understanding and sense of oneself. Self-understanding also provides a sound basis for understanding other people – how could a leader be conscious of another’s need or have empathy

with others without first having awareness of their own self? In other words, you must first have a mature understanding of who you are and why you behave in the ways you do, and to be secure in self-acceptance, before leading other people.
If you are to improve your leadership skills and practice, then it is