In the dynamic world of startups, leadership isn’t just about making decisions; it’s about understanding oneself and being able to persevere in the context of ever-present challenges and constant change. One trait that can set you apart as a startup leader is self-awareness. Let’s take a look at some studies supporting the importance and transformative impact of self-awareness.
But first, what is self-awareness?
Self-awareness is the ability to recognize and understand one’s emotions, strengths, weaknesses, and the impact of one’s behavior on others.
Here are just a few studies that support and explain the importance of self awareness:
Harvard Business Review on Emotional Intelligence:
A study published in the Harvard Business Review emphasizes that leaders with high emotional intelligence, including self-awareness, tend to be more effective in various leadership roles, particularly in times of organizational change and uncertainty (HBR, “What Makes a Leader?”).
Stanford Graduate School of Business on Leadership Skills:
The Stanford Graduate School of Business conducted a comprehensive study that identified self-awareness as a foundational skill for effective leadership. The study highlights that self-aware leaders are more adaptable and better equipped to navigate the challenges posed by the volatile startup landscape (Stanford GSB, “Stanford-NVCA Venture Capital Symposium: Building Effective Boards and Management Teams”).
McKinsey & Company on Centered Leadership
Through extensive research, McKinsey has found five key capabilities that not only generate high levels of professional performance, but also lead to greater overall life satisfaction. The capabilities are finding meaning in work, converting emotions into opportunity, leveraging connections and community, acting in the face of risk and sustaining the energy of change. Self-awareness is key to acting constructively when emotions and stress run high. The ability to introspect and assess your own energy can also be a critical first step to keeping others motivated and engaged (McKinsey, “How Centered Leaders Achieve Extraordinary Results”).
Center for Creative Leadership on Leadership Development:
The Center for Creative Leadership’s research underscores the importance of self-awareness in leadership development. Leaders who actively seek to understand themselves and their impact on others are more likely to drive organizational success (Center for Creative Leadership, “The Impact of Leadership Development”).
In the next article, Self-Aware Startup Leaders Excel at These 4 Things, we’ll expand on some of the major benefits of being a self-aware leader.
