Point Inward

Posted on March 21, 2010 by Ronald T. Brown, Ph.D.

The leadership practice of being fully present - and in the moment - is one of the most powerful and difficult leadership practices an individual can master.

Richard Boyatzis and Annie McKee discuss this topic in the article ”In a Bad Spot? Try Mindfulness.” When navigating through uncertainty - especially during times of rapid change or crisis - the ability to be fully present is critical:

“In high-pressure situations many people point outward: They find reasons for their problems outside of themselves. They blame others or the situation, and they look for excuses. Good leaders point inward: They take personal responsibility for what is happening and what needs to be done, even when circumstances play a definitive role. Dan Sontag routinely asks himself, ‘What is my part in creating this situation and what do I, personally, need to do about it?’... In high-pressure situations most people look outward: They try to find reasons for their problems outside of themselves.”

The ability to be fully present, and to respond appropriately to a situation unfolding before you requires self-mastery. Take one wrong step… and a situation can spiral out of control. So when going through a time of uncertainty, remain mindful by first pointing inward - by being self-aware, and making sure you first gain a honest understanding of yourself, your environment, and the people around you.