Finding your Leadership Story
Your leadership story lies at the intersection of your self-perception and how others interpret your actions and words. It’s reflected in what you say and do—and, just as importantly, how others perceive and interpret those behaviors.
I hate to admit this, but as a leader, your effectiveness is often judged by how others perceive you. This might sting, especially if you wear your confidence like a badge of honor, but it’s a crucial insight to embrace. Leadership is as much about perception as it is about action—at least until you’ve established a legacy of exceptional leadership that speaks for itself.
The truth is, self-assessment of your leadership style is inherently flawed. Leaders often fall into the trap of justifying their behavior, blinding themselves to areas needing improvement. In a previous article, I highlighted some pitfalls to avoid and emphasized the importance of fostering a team that challenges you constructively. Without feedback from others, your self-perception is unlikely to be entirely accurate—whether you tend to overestimate your abilities or are overly critical of yourself. Rarely does one’s self-view align perfectly with reality, and this disconnect can significantly impact your ability to lead effectively.
Recognizing and accepting your imperfections is a gateway to excellence. To grow as a leader, it’s essential to establish a system of checks and balances. This allows you to gain a holistic understanding of who you are—not only from your perspective but also through the eyes of others. Be prepared: you might not always like what you hear. Feedback can clash with your self-image, but it’s vital for truly understanding and refining your leadership narrative. Think of it this way: balance is the added value.
