5 Tools Leaders Can Use to Grow in Self-Awareness

Self-awareness is one of the most important capabilities a leader can develop. But good intentions alone won’t get you there.

If you want to grow in self-awareness as a leader, you need tools help you slow down, reflect, and better understand how your leadership is experienced by the people around you.

In the video above, I’m sharing five of my favorite tools leaders can use to strengthen their self-awareness and close the gap between how they see themselves and how others experience them. 

If you’re looking for a quick recap, here are the five tools we talk about in the video:

1. Structured Reflective Practices

Set aside intentional time to reflect on your leadership. Even a few thoughtful questions each week can surface powerful insights.

2. Research-Based Assessments

Tools like CliftonStrengths can help you better understand your natural patterns of thinking, communicating, and leading.

3. Structured Employee Listening

Engagement surveys, pulse surveys, and one-on-one conversations give leaders a clearer picture of how their leadership is actually experienced.

4. A Personal Feedback Cabinet

Identify a few trusted colleagues who are willing to speak candidly with you about how your leadership is landing.

5. AI as a Thinking Partner

Used thoughtfully, AI can help leaders reflect on situations, challenge assumptions, and explore different perspectives.

Growing in self-awareness takes intention, curiosity, and a willingness to listen. These five tools are a powerful place to start.

If you’re interested in using AI to strengthen your leadership self-awareness, I’ve created a free resource with prompts you can use.

👉 Download the AI Leadership Reflection Guide

And if you’d like to explore the broader concept of congruent leadership, you can learn more in my book:

📘 The Congruent Leader

Hey, thanks for being here and for watching/reading. My goal is to consistently create content that's engaging, applicable, and inspires you to continue learning and growing as a leader. If you have ideas for future content or any questions at all, please shoot me an email at: [email protected].