How well do you really understand the impact you have on other people, not just the impact you intend to have?Self-awareness becomes increasingly important as you become more senior because leadership effectiveness depends on far more than your technical expertise. We discuss how your assumptions, preferences, habits, strengths and behaviours shape how you lead, and why understanding how others experience you is essential for strategic leadership.We also consider the difference between intention and impact, and why feedback is valuable data rather than something you automatically need to accept as fact.We introduce a five-part approach that moves from awareness to effectiveness. It helps you turn greater self-awareness into intentional choices about how you show up in different situations, rather than relying on your default behaviours.We also share practical ways to build your self-awareness. You will discover how to gather useful feedback, identify patterns and blind spots, and adapt your leadership approach without feeling that you need to change who you are.Key points discussedWhy self-awareness is fundamental to effective strategic leadership.How the gap between your intention and your impact can affect how others experience your leadership.Why treating feedback as data can make it easier to hear and use constructively.Why senior leaders need to ask proactively for feedback rather than simply having an “open door”.Practical feedback tools - “What went well, even better if” and Ask 5 – and how they can make gathering useful feedback simpler and less threatening.Key takeawaySelf-awareness is not simply knowing your strengths, weaknesses and preferences. Its value comes from understanding your impact on others and using that knowledge to make more intentional choices about how you lead. The goal is not to change who you are, but to adapt your approach when doing so will make you more effective.Want more?Read Gemma’s blog for more about this topic and the models/graphics we refer to in the episode. Thank you for tuning into this episode of The Strategic Leader podcast.If you enjoyed the show, please give us 5 stars! It will help others find the show. Check out our previous episodes and remember to subscribe so you don’t miss our future episodes. If you have any questions or want to discuss anything, we’d love to hear from you:www.gemmabullivant.co.uk (for Gemma)www.wearegoodthinking.co.uk (for Fi)

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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