In our exploration of Who am I--A self-awareness journey, we must understand
Our impact on others!
We must observe and engage our inner circle (spouse, kids, teammates, leaders, and customers) and ask the following questions:
1) How do my words and actions affect you?
To do so, we must 1) Observe the behavior of those around us, 2) Perform our own evaluation of how we affect them, and 3) Ask probing questions in an effort to obtain honest and candid feedback. When you show your concern in this way, it will promote genuine dialogue and generate solutions. When your people know, see, and feel that you are vulnerable and concerned about their ultimate welfare, then everyone will be inspired to take another step.
2) What do you need from me?
The most important thing we can give to our people is to be a genuinely good listener. We must listen without calculation. We must listen without judgment. We must listen to understand, not to reply. When our people trust that we are listening sincerely, then they will begin to offer us the feedback that is within their heart. When we allow mutual trust to develop in this way, then truth will be our currency, and everyone will be liberated.
3) What are the gaps between what you need and what I can provide?
As I better understand my impact and the needs of my inner circle, now I must determine ways to improve. This can be a difficult process, as changes, especially significant ones, involve important consequences and ambiguities. There are many considerations in this process. The open and honest dialogue that we have created will allow us to move forward. When all of this is fully realized, people will be more calm, confident, and wise, so we can all compromise for the betterment of the whole, allowing everyone to be their best version of themselves.
I learned in my 20’s and 30’s that feedback negative or positive can help me grow and prosper if I chew and swallow it properly. When we are courageous enough to hear someone’s brutal truth, a trusting relationship will grow and then everyone will take another step.
How is your self-awareness?
Are you aware how you impact those around you?
What would your inner circle say about you?
I humbly challenge you to engage with this process. Be strong and very courageous to find peace in all relationships. Without me doing this 15 + years ago and being conscious of it daily, I do not know where my relationship would be with my wife and 2 boys right now!
If I can help you take another step in this journey, please reach out to me.
If you have conquered this journey, I would love to hear how you accomplished this vital task, so we can help others!
