Self-awareness check-list
Self-awareness is a critical starting-place in any change program. And that can be change at any level, from self, through group to organisation, community or society.
Taking the time to assess yourself can give you clues on areas that would benefit from attention, as well as help design ways of working that work well with you and your strengths.
These check-points are taken from: Zeus, P, and Skiffington, S (2000). The complete guide to coaching at work. McGraw-Hill, Rosedale, NSW.
These lists are not comprehensive, but are enough to prompt thought!
IN YOUR INTERACTIONS WITH OTHERS, ARE YOU:
Assertive vs Aggressive
Cooperative vs Capitulating
Objective vs Emotional
Relaxed vs Tense
Supportive vs Oppositional
Fearful vs Trusting?
PERSONALITY PROFILE:
High self-awareness vs Low self-awareness
Conservative vs Non-conformist
Bold vs Hesitant
Diffident vs Self-confident
People-oriented vs Task-oriented
Passive vs Domineering
Careful vs Risk-taking
Pragmatic vs Idealistic
Assertive vs Tentative
Tolerant vs Impatient
Optimistic vs Pessimistic
Emotional vs Logical.
LEADERSHIP PROFILE:
Visionary vs Pragmatic
Confrontational vs Laissez-faire
Security-oriented vs Innovative
Remote vs Influencing
Low-key vs Charismatic
Hierachical vs Empowering
Individualist vs Team-player
Flexible vs Rigid
Reluctant vs Enthusiastic
Initiator vs Follows through.
COGNITIVE STYLE:
Curious vs Narrow-focused
Feelings-oriented vs Analytical
Factual vs Imaginative
Cautious vs Likes challenge
Results-oriented vs Process-oriented
Self-sufficient vs Solicits ideas
Internal locus of control vs External locus of control
Easily distracted vs Focused
Persevering vs Easily bored
Thoughtful, considered vs Makes decisions quickly
Rapid processor of data vs Gradual processor of data
Likes big picture vs Interested in details
Solicits feedback vs Avoids appraisal.
COMMUNICATION STYLE:
Gregarious vs Shy
Flamboyant vs Reserved
Poised vs Casual
Spontaneous vs Controlled
Animated vs Withdrawn
Self-disclosing vs Non-self-disclosing
Trusting vs Guarded
Good eye-contact vs Little eye-contact
Friendly vs Distant/aloof
Varies voice pitch vs Speaks in monotone.
From this, you can summarise the ways of operating that you rely on most strongly, in your Personality, your Leadership Qualities, your Cognitive Style, and your Communication Style.
You can then look to see how these impact your performance – where they support you, and where they get in your way. You and your coach can then identify which areas would best support you to develop, and design a pathway and vehicle for their development.
