Leaders, we walk a tightrope. Above us, the bright spotlight of expectation; below, the murky depths of our own blind spots where we get in our own way. We may hold the compass, but navigating this invisible terrain requires more than just a map. It demands metacognition – the awareness of one’s own thinking. 

Just like E.E. Cummings said, “It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are,” so how do we illuminate our own darkness? How do we uncover the biases, assumptions, and hidden habits that can trip us up and cause us to stumble over self-imposed speedbumps?. 

Embrace feedback, not defensiveness. Feedback, be it positive or negative, cracks open the door to self-discovery. We may squirm, but listen – there’s wisdom in discomfort. Seek out diverse perspectives, from trusted colleagues to anonymous surveys. Let go of the need to be right, and instead, embrace the opportunity to grow.

Step outside your comfort zone. Our blind spots often linger in the shadows of familiarity. Challenge your routines, experiment with new approaches, and immerse yourself in unfamiliar environments. Stepping outside your comfort zone can bring a fresh perspective, revealing the limitations of your own lens.

Ask powerful questions. Curiosity is the antidote to complacency. Instead of assuming you have all the answers, ask open-ended questions that provoke deeper reflection. Ask your team “What could I be doing differently?” or “What am I missing?” Their responses can become the brushstrokes that paint a more complete picture of your leadership style.

Practice vulnerability. The bravest leaders are not those who pretend to have it all figured out, but those who acknowledge their limitations. Sharing your own struggles and blind spots creates a space for others to do the same, fostering honesty and trust within your team.

Cultivate mindfulness. The busyness of leadership can make it easy to go on autopilot. Pause throughout your day, even for a few minutes, to simply observe your thoughts and emotions. Are they serving you and your team? This inward awareness can illuminate hidden patterns and unconscious behaviors.

Blind spots obscure our paths forward. But by actively seeking feedback, venturing beyond our comfort zones, and cultivating self-awareness, we can transform these hidden limitations into catalysts for growth. 

So, leaders, let’s embrace the journey – not just towards a destination, but also towards a deeper understanding of ourselves. It’s my belief that authentic exploration of the spaces between the known and unknown and self discovery are how we ultimately master leadership. How about you?