Self reflection is the key to great leadership

The start of a new year is an ideal time for reflection. As you plan for the year ahead, I encourage you to identify what brings you joy and find ways to integrate those activities into your daily life and leadership.

For example, some years ago I realized how much I enjoy walking and simply being outdoors. I soon discovered that many of my clients also appreciate getting outside, moving, and walking with me. The experience of walking side by side fostered a more open and honest reflection and conversation.

The preference for walking meetings and one-on-one conversations (whether virtual or in person) continues to flourish as more and more executives appreciate the power of nature, being outdoors and movement.

Self-awareness is key to great leadership, and knowing ourselves - especially what supports our well-being - is essential. For leaders, making time for self-reflection and seeking feedback from others helps ensure that we are paying attention to what matters. Self-reflection can take many forms; for some of us, writing and journaling helps, while for others, it is talking with trusted colleagues or friends, reading or going for a walk on our own.

I have found it hugely helpful to 'take a thought for a walk,' especially when grappling with something on my own. It is a joy to return from even the shortest of walks and realize that the time to think and walk has helped, whatever the challenge.

Leadership necessitates attentiveness to our surroundings. Many leaders find that being in nature, slowing down and focusing on their breath while walking helps them think through challenges. Some even consider it their "therapy." Knowing what self-care practices support you as a leader reassures those who follow you.

Particularly in the Northern Hemisphere, self-care is crucial this time of year. There's an expectation that post holiday period we will return from our breaks feeling refreshed, but this feeling is often for many of us short-lived. While holidays are important for rest and recharging, incorporating regular breaks into our daily routine is equally crucial.

It's easy to get caught up in back-to-back virtual meetings without taking a step back from our screens. However, scheduling breaks between meetings - both virtual and in person - is essential for maintaining energy and focus. Remember, self-care isn't just for holidays, it's a year-round necessity.  A few years ago I read "Step Back - How to Bring the Art of Reflection into Your Busy Life'’ by Joseph L. Badaracco in which he recommends stepping back and finding 'the cracks and crevices in our everyday lives to do so.' I think of these as the micro-moments of our everyday, to move, to step away, to pause. And have found this practice to be hugely helpful. 

Great leadership involves effectively managing both our own energy and that of others. The ability to combine energy and focus is essential for success, and understanding how to manage our energies to engage with others is crucial for any leader. 

To help with this, I have found it beneficial to view these energies through the lens of the 'four energies of a leader,' which are Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spirit. Although the concept of Spirit energy may be challenging for some, it can be thought of as the source of meaning and purpose; our values, beliefs, and passion. 

A good starting point is to check in with yourself and assess how you are showing up physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Then, consider which energies you need to increase or decrease. These four energies are interconnected. For example, when I take care of my physical energy by getting enough sleep, eating well, breathing and moving, I feel better emotionally. My thinking is more focused and positive, and I feel more connected to my values, beliefs, passion, and purpose.  

Leadership thrives on reflection and conversation. Reflecting on our leadership, understanding our strengths, knowing what we are like at our best and helping others to be their best is a huge part of cultivating a culture of care and connection where individuals flourish and collaborate effectively.  Engaging in reflective practices and open leadership conversations that encourage feedback enables collective learning and development, fostering a commitment to mutual success.

Authored by Anni Townend a leadership coach.

Anni is a facilitator on The Marketing Leaders Programme. Applications for 2025 close on February 14 - find out more about the programme in our Q&A with Anni here. 

Published 29 January 2025

Members you can now comment on our content: login via your member login and the comment box will appear at the bottom of this article.