Leaders and Reflection

“Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.”  ~ Peter Drucker

As 2024 begins its headlong rush to become 2025 in just two short crazy busy weeks - my thoughts turn to how the beginning of a new calendar year is like a fresh start in some ways. It’s important for leaders especially to seize these moments for intentional reflection. Reflection leads to learning, growth, adaptability and resilience - for you as an individual, for your team and for your organization.

In the brief pause you may get between the week of Christmas and the New Year - Or maybe even in the week of the New Year … where can you intentionally slow down and find space for purposeful reflection?

Reflection is not equal to inaction - it’s the mental preparation that fuels intervals of productive action. A little uncertainty is worth the breakthrough you might discover during times you look inward.”  ~ Walt Rakowich

Without reflection there can be inertia and complacency; letting what’s right in front of you drive your days without intention. Therefore great leaders keep asking themselves self-reflective questions; here are some examples:

• In what ways and in what situations have you seen great results? What did you do/stop doing that contributed to this?

• What do you need to adjust to create the impact that you want to see?

• What do you need to change in yourself and leave behind?

• Have you been ‘walking the talk’ of your personal and organizational values?

• Moving forward, how can you better support individuals, teams and your organizations in their growth and development?

  
  

“Authentic leaders have a habit of self-reflection as staying true to who they really are. Leaders who care also pay a lot of attention to who they are becoming because they are always focused on growth. They know that when you come to the same office every day, there is a tendency to become mediocre without notice.” ~ Talyaa Vardar, Executive Coach

How about you? Where will you find the time for meaningful reflection to avoid mediocrity and move yourself and your organization forward in the journey of excellence?