It’s been a while since I’ve posted a work-related topic so it’s long overdue. I’ve come to realize an important aspect of my leadership: know how you work as it will help you be more effective at work. So what does that mean?
Through various leadership activities I’ve taken instruments like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and the Strengths Finder. I found both of these useful for different reasons. The MBTI gave me insight into my preferences when interacting with the world and from where I get energy. Similarly, the Strengths Finder illuminated what activities energize me and motivate me and how that shapes me as a leader. One thing that is key with both of these instruments is that they are not absolutes — they do not define what one can or cannot do. They show preferences and people do things all the time that are not their preference. For example, perhaps a great speaker is an introvert. She enjoys preparing an elegant speech and delivering it with energy but afterwards the smalltalk with attendees leaves her exhausted, drained. People can work outside of their preferences or strengths but it drains their batteries — working within your preferences or strengths recharges your batteries. (more…)