Introduction

Understanding Great Leaders

Great leaders are distinguished not only by their external achievements but also by their internal practices. Unlike poor leaders who believe they know everything and rely on blind loyalty, great leaders recognize their own limitations and surround themselves with individuals who possess a variety of skills and perspectives. They value authenticity and openness, welcoming challenges and feedback to foster personal and professional growth.

"Often, great leaders embark on a journey of personal development, addressing their inner critic and unconscious biases. This self-reflection enables them to provide others with compassionate and informed leadership, ensuring that their teams are not only productive but also content and fulfilled.

Internal Work for Leadership

If you are interested in becoming a great leader, one of the critical steps is to engage in internal work. This involves understanding and coming to terms with areas where you may have avoided dealing with due to discomfort or fear.

1. Engaging with the Inner Critic

The inner critic can be a relentless and critical voice that often sets unrealistic expectations and judges one's actions. Identifying and addressing these patterns can significantly enhance your leadership qualities. Begin by reflecting on how you:

Hold yourself to unrealistic expectations Justify harmful narratives about yourself Act recklessly under pressure Withhold love or care Struggle with self-worth

This introspection can help you develop a more balanced and compassionate view of yourself and those around you. By acknowledging and addressing these parts of yourself, you can live more easefully and set a positive example for others to follow.

2. Examine Feedback Loops

Another essential practice is to pay attention to the feedback you receive, both explicit and implicit. Great leaders are always looking for ways to improve and adapt their leadership style. This involves:

Identifying positive feedback and qualities that others appreciate in you Understanding the qualities you wish would be recognized more often Seeking out constructive criticism to identify areas of improvement

By establishing a regular pattern of asking for and engaging with feedback, you can continuously refine your leadership approach and better connect with your team members.

3. Cultivating Gratitude and Self-Care

Self-care and gratitude are crucial for maintaining overall well-being and effectiveness as a leader. Great leaders understand the importance of:

Taking care of their own physical and mental health Supporting others in caring for their own health Flexibly managing time to address various needs, such as personal rest, neurodiversity, and chronic health conditions

When you prioritize your own well-being, you become better equipped to support your team's needs. Always be willing to ask for help and learn from others to improve your understanding and create more inclusive solutions.

Conclusion

Embracing these uncommon practices—addressing the inner critic, examining feedback loops, and cultivating gratitude and self-care—is key to becoming a great leader. By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can enhance your leadership qualities, foster a positive team environment, and achieve greater success in your professional and personal life.