You have probably heard that famous quote from Aristotle, “We are what we repeatedly do.” Well, I am going to take that thought and reverse it:
“We do what we repeatedly are.”
It is difficult, nearly impossible, to see yourself as you are. As a leader, you must be rigorously introspective, and at the same time open to the feedback, in order to develop a clear picture of who you are and how others experience you—this is your Signature Presence, which I explored in a previous post.
Recall a time when you demonstrated one of your signature qualities in your role as a leader. Next, remember how you felt, what you said, and what you did. Finally, think about how you might apply those qualities, those strengths to a current situation you face. You may want to capture your reflections in a chart like the one below. When you can intentionally call forth your signature qualities, they become launching pads for what you do as a highly effective leader.
Kathryn D. Cramer, PH.D.
Founder and Managing Partner, The Cramer Institute
