Coaching can have various outcomes for individuals based on their needs and desires. But one thing is constant, no matter who is being coached – that person will come to know themselves on a deeper level.
This is a key factor in effective leadership, no matter the type. Successful leadership depends on being true to yourself. You have to not only know and accept and build on your strengths, but you must also be open to your weaknesses and truly work towards building those up, not shoving them down, hiding them, and hoping they go away (they won’t!).
This is easier said than done, of course. Is it fun to give yourself a long, hard look and admit that you have things to work on – and sometimes really difficult things? Most times, no, it’s not. But is it worth it? Yes, because not only will it help you become a better person overall, it will help you become a more successful leader. You will more easily connect with others, because your genuine humanity will be showing and radiating — and that’s relatable.
This is the type of self-work that can sometimes, quite easily, be pushed aside. And not only because it’s uncomfortable work to do, but because leaders don’t usually have a ton of spare time to get introspective to a degree that actually ends in a change of perception and attitude.
But to begin that change now, today, start reframing this type of internal work as essential to your organization’s mission. Without focusing on yourself, getting to know yourself, and working on your strengths and weaknesses, you will never tap into the type of transformative leadership you’re capable of.
That type of leadership will help you succeed, help your team succeed, and help your organization meet it’s mission goals, which undoubtedly help countless clients.