The Power of Morning Self-Assessment for Effective Leadership
Verizon CEO Hans Vestberg believes in the importance of self-reflection as a crucial aspect of his leadership approach. Speaking at the Fast Company Innovation Festival 2023, Vestberg shared his daily routine of self-assessment, which he has practiced since becoming CEO of Ericsson in 2009. Each morning, Vestberg rates his mood on a scale of 1 to 10, allowing him to gauge his mental state and align himself with the right mindset and energy level for the day ahead.
The Impact of Mood Ratings
Vestberg's mood ratings serve as a guide for his interactions and productivity. A rating of 1 to 2 indicates a need for solitude, as he may not be in the right headspace for collaboration. On the other hand, a rating of 3 to 7 signifies an energized state where he can perform at his best. Interestingly, Vestberg humorously mentioned that a rating of 8 to 10, representing excessive energy, can sometimes tire others around him. In such cases, he consciously dials back to the 3 to 7 range to maintain focus and prioritize his work.
Similar Strategies for Better Decision-Making
Vestberg is not alone in recognizing the value of self-inquiry. Executive coach Jerry Colonna, often referred to as the "CEO whisperer," practices a similar routine called "radical self-inquiry." By spending a few minutes each day asking important questions about feelings and intentions, Colonna believes individuals can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and make conscious choices rather than acting on unconscious motivations.
The Importance of Self-Awareness
While these strategies may initially feel unfamiliar, they offer a path to develop crucial self-awareness. Society often discourages looking inward, labeling it as self-indulgent or narcissistic. However, as long as individuals avoid fixating on specific character traits, self-inquiry can lead to valuable self-awareness.
Benefits for Professional Success
Self-awareness is a vital skill for professionals at all levels. Harvard Business Review reports that it enhances confidence, creativity, decision-making abilities, and relationship-building skills. It also serves as a protective measure against work-related stress and burnout. According to neuroscientist Juliette Han, technical skills and charisma alone are insufficient for success. A lack of self-awareness can hinder the development of strong relationships and effective interactions with colleagues and superiors.
In conclusion, the practice of morning self-assessment, as advocated by Vestberg and Colonna, holds the potential to unlock leadership strengths and foster self-awareness. By understanding oneself better, individuals can navigate their professional lives with confidence, make better decisions, and build meaningful relationships.
Impact of Morning Self-Assessment on New Business Leadership
The practice of morning self-assessment, as advocated by Verizon CEO Hans Vestberg, has profound implications for new business formation. Vestberg's daily routine of rating his mood on a scale of 1 to 10 serves as a tool for self-reflection and mood regulation, impacting his leadership style and productivity.
Self-Assessment and Leadership
For new businesses, leadership plays a critical role in shaping the company's culture and success. Vestberg's method of self-assessment could be a valuable tool for new business leaders, providing them with insights into their mental state and readiness for collaboration. By understanding their mood and energy levels, leaders can adjust their interactions and decision-making processes accordingly.
Role of Self-Inquiry in Decision-Making
Furthermore, the concept of self-inquiry, as practiced by executive coach Jerry Colonna, offers a way for leaders to understand their motivations and make conscious choices. This practice could be particularly beneficial for new business leaders, helping them to navigate the complexities of business decision-making with greater self-awareness.
Self-Awareness as a Business Asset
While self-inquiry and self-assessment might initially seem self-indulgent, they are crucial for developing self-awareness. This skill is vital for professionals at all levels and can significantly enhance leadership capabilities.
Implications for New Business Success
For new businesses, leadership with high self-awareness can lead to better decision-making, improved relationships, and protection against work-related stress and burnout. The practice of morning self-assessment could therefore be a game-changer for new businesses, fostering a leadership style marked by self-awareness, confidence, and effective decision-making.
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