One of my clients for whom I am doing a teambuilding program asked me if I could include something on self-awareness. His idea of self-awareness scared me because he wanted people to be confronted by their colleagues on issues of whether they were seen as friendly, approachable, engaged, etc. He even wanted a dialog about what people wore in the office and what it said about how they saw their role and commitment to the organization.
That launched me on a review of the literature and the Internet resources. I can tell you that most of what I saw on YouTube on the subject is a massive waste of time. It reminded me of those magazines with “15 steps to a better love life”.
But, as I might have suspected, the most meaningful ideas about self-awareness came to me from Daniel Goleman’s writings on emotional intelligence. He has this nice summary outline defining self-awareness.
Emotional awareness: Recognizing one’s emotions and their effects. People with this competence:
- Know which emotions they are feeling and why
- Realize the links between their feelings and what they think, do, and say
- Recognize how their feelings affect their performance
- Have a guiding awareness of their values and goals
Accurate self-assessment: Knowing one’s strengths and limits. People with this competence are:
- Aware of their strengths and weaknesses
- Reflective, learning from experience
- Open to candid feedback, new perspectives, continuous learning, and self development
- Able to show a sense of humor and perspective about themselves
Self-confidence: Sureness about one’s self-worth and capabilities. People with this competence:
- Present themselves with self-assurance; have “presence”
- Can voice views that are unpopular and go out on a limb for what is right
- Are decisive, able to make sound decisions despite uncertainties and pressure
It is still not an easy topic for a teambuilding, but armed with Goleman’s ideas I will give it a try. As always, your thoughts are very welcome.
-Herb Nestler