Medieval alchemists claimed to transform basic metals into gold. Could it be that self-awareness is today’s alchemy, transforming your flaws? When you own your weaknesses, you change the equation into something better. That’s true in almost every arena, from career to personal style.
This came to mind recently when I saw a hand-drawn graph about style. On one axis was “relevance of personal style,” from trendy to neutral to outdated. On the other axis was “awareness of personal style,” from in-denial to neutral to self-aware. According to the graph, being self-aware elevates someone’s style from basic to cheugy. You apparently get a fashion pass if you’re cheugy, because although you are wearing something outdated, you’re doing it with awareness.
This led me to think about how self-awareness at work can redeem many flaws.
But shouldn’t we be focused on our strengths, you ask? Yes. However, being aware of weaknesses does not mean focusing on them. It’s simply recognition. And it can be career-enhancing.
When you are aware of your weaknesses, you are more likely to position yourself in a role that’s a true fit. Which increases your chance for success. Which increases your chance for advancement. Furthermore, you’re more likely to want to keep moving forward because you have a clear understanding of what you’re good at and what you’re not.
With strong self-awareness, you’re also better able to take responsibility when problems arise. You own your mistakes and are not defensive. You understand where you may have failed. This creates a healthy team dynamic, which will add to your success.
In understanding your weaknesses, you are better able to finesse relationships, too. You see the impact you have on people, and can make course corrections when something about your style is not working in the relationship. For example, if you know you have an impulse towards micromanaging, you can purposely resist and make a point of giving space for your employees to carve their own paths. Besides, people tend to give you a break, to be more forgiving, when you demonstrate self-awareness.
So how can we all cultivate more self-awareness and increase its benefits at work and in our careers?
Many companies offer tools for this. These include personality frameworks like Myers-Briggs, Gallop Strengths, or the DISC assessment. Some companies also offer executive coaching. If yours doesn’t, you might seek it out on your own. These tools allow you to see yourself more clearly. That benefits you, your career and the company.
You can also actively seek feedback to build awareness of your weaknesses, especially if you’re able to receive it without being defensive. Take performance reviews seriously. Ask teammates what you could do better. Your colleagues can help you gain perspective on your flaws, as well as your value.
Cultivate self-awareness, and your career will likely be transformed. And there just may be some gold in that.
Photo by Julia M Cameron from Pexels