Renowned Greek philosopher Aristotle once said “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.". Developing our self-awareness is not only the key to a meaningful life, but can be a valuable skill in the world of business and as a member of the workforce. We can make sounder decisions, build stronger relationships, and communicate more effectively. This CPD article will outline the benefits of having self-awareness skills as well as provide some avenues and tips on how to improve them.
What does self-awareness mean?
Self-awareness is a valuable tool and one of the most important elements of an individual’s own growth and the first step to setting effective goals. It can usually be categorised into two types: internal self-awareness and external self-awareness.
Although not something you will be acutely focused on at every moment, being internally self-aware is having a good knowledge and understanding of yourself including your own thoughts and emotions. Practicing self-awareness is about learning to better understand why you are feeling like you do, and why you may behave in a particular way.
External self-awareness, also sometimes called public self-awareness, allows you to see the impact you may have on other people, and to take that into account in your daily interactions. This can be a particularly important component of emotional intelligence and personal development.
What is the importance of self-awareness?
Self-awareness is something we should all strive for as individuals. In business, as in life, unexpected or unwelcome things can happen. A highly self-aware person is one that takes challenges in their stride and acts in a calm, professional manner. A deeper understanding of your own self helps regulate thoughts and have greater control over actions to make clear, strong decisions.
Applying self-awareness techniques and practices allows us to better identify and manage emotions, and make positive behavioural changes that can lead to greater personal or interpersonal success. When we see ourselves clearly, and are aware of our own emotions, desires, abilities and goals, this can have positive outcomes and tremendously improve our everyday life.
As you develop your own self-awareness, this can make you feel more accomplished and confident in the workplace. Individuals with better self-esteem are more likely to perform well within their roles. Leaders who are confident can more efficiently react to any changes in their circumstances, as well as projecting that confidence onto their team.
Advantages and disadvantages of self-awareness
Gaining self-awareness can start in small ways. It is something that needs to be learned, refined, and strengthened over time. Improving your self-awareness, as with any skill, can have all sorts of advantages to your career and personal achievements. Below, we have outlined the positive benefits you may find from possessing a high degree of self-awareness.
- Those that are self-aware have an easier time empathising with people from different backgrounds, this leads to higher levels of inclusivity and diversity. This is crucial, as it can impact your ability to communicate with others and collaborate productively.
- It can allow you to discover areas in your knowledge or skillsets that need continued improvement and to be worked on further, whether this be through classes, training courses or practical “on the job” experiences. This is a key aspect of Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
- Increased happiness can be an advantage to introspection. When an individual takes the time to look inside themselves and define what happiness means to them, and to intentionally pursue that happiness, an increase can then be achieved.
- Increased self-confidence is another advantage of practicing introspection. Confidence always appeals to employers and demonstrates potential leadership ability when working with a team.
- Self-awareness will lead to the expansion of new and creative ideas, which will thrive in those whose minds are clear and focused.
- It is important to understand how other people view you. People who recognise how others see them are more skilled at showing empathy and taking others’ perspectives.
- Leaders who can see themselves through their employees’ eyes often have a better relationship with those working for them and are regarded to be more effective in general.
- Knowing your own strengths and weaknesses allows you to lead by example and support others to develop their own self-awareness. You can apply your strengths with expertise or undertake learning to improve areas of weakness.
