Developing the Art of Self-Leadership and its Benefits

Leadership is the act of providing exemplary and convincing structure and pattern of behaviour that promote the achievement of organizational goals. Research shows that true leadership is basically intrinsic rather than extrinsic, therefore, only individuals who are capable of leading themselves to attain set goals can lead others to reach that height. Leadership failure is a failure sourced from poor self-leadership skills. The experience required for a successful leadership experience is derived from each moment of personally leading oneself. Hence, the most thriving memories of leadership are those relating to the Art of Self-Leadership.

Self-leadership provides a first-hand practical life experience about leadership and leadership styles. The hallmark of leadership is mentoring. This, however, is a right reserved exclusively for self-led leaders as such individuals had developed a culture of personal accountability, self-management, self-control, goal setting, etc. in their day-to-day lives. Hence, leading becomes natural to them and would not need to put up a special feat to demonstrate their suitability for leadership roles. One of the most destructive factors in life still remains emerging as a leader without prior preparation or readiness. This has sunk the ship of great conglomerates, nations, homes and institutions. A leader that is deficient in the art of self-leadership has a higher probability of being harsh, indecisive, confused, aggressive and increased tendencies to engage in blame pushing.

Every person aspiring to lead as few as two people must begin to imbibe a leadership culture that certifies him as a self-led leader. The fact remains that every individual leads a significant number of people even unconsciously. For example, several individuals have social media followers equal to the population of a continent. Hence, moulding the lifestyles of millions of people across the world. 

Tips for Developing the Art of Self-Leadership

1. Read books authored by great leaders.
2. Develop an objective self-evaluation strategy.
3. Identify your weaknesses and strengths. Improve on your strength and starve your weaknesses.
4. Develop soft skills such as goal-setting skills, social skills, accountability, self-control, etc.
5. Develop healthy risk-taking skills.
6. Enjoy criticisms. Feedback provides checks and balances.

Benefits of Self-Leadership

1. Successful living. Self-led leaders achieve great feats in life.
2. Self-actualization. A sense of fulfilment and satisfaction of a life well-lived.
3. Self-led individuals provide mentoring and coaching that enhance the high rate of success in leadership.
4. Optimization of Organizational potentials and achievement of goals.
5. Improves healthy leadership-followership relationship.
6. Increased self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and high performance.

Did you find this article insightful? Check out our blogs for more.

Powered by Froala Editor