Self-Aware: Discovering Ourselves Through Self-Assessments

 We have all been there, taking those intriguing self-assessments – determining our personality types, conflict styles, love languages, and even which Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle we resonate with (I’m Raphael, by the way!). But once we gather this colorful array of self-knowledge, the real question emerges: What do we do with all this insight?

The Gift of Self-Awareness

 Self-awareness is not just about knowing who you are but understanding why you are the way you are. The journey takes you beyond the surface, offering a more profound comprehension of your actions, reactions, and interactions.

A Transformational Experience with DISC

 A leadership team at an organization I am working with recently embarked on this journey by taking the Tony Robbins DISC profile. Witnessing the diverse results and then delving into the dynamics of how the groups work together was nothing short of amazing. It led to discussions on strengths, opportunities, and the crucial ‘why’ behind individual and collective behaviors. It also helped fuel the sense of belonging for team members by establishing a foundation of trust since we hit the root cause of ‘why’ certain behaviors exist.

Understanding and Sharing Our Stories

 In a group of five leaders, this group gained a profound understanding of their colleagues on a new level. These team members realized why certain peers were averse to conflict and how their past experiences shaped this behavior. It is fascinating how a simple personality profile can reveal the intricate stories that define us.

Embracing Vulnerability and Honesty

 Being self-aware also means confronting the hard truths about ourselves. For instance, I discovered my fear of routine and my preference for ‘organized chaos.’ This realization, though challenging, has been a vital part of my growth and has helped me learn to do one of three things when approaching the beautiful element of work: 1. Set a time to get it done, and make a calendar hold to address the task during a specific time slot. 2. Do it now, knowing only some things can be done simultaneously. 3. Let it go. Only some things need a response.

The Power of Sharing and Collaboration

 As this group I worked with shared their stories around the table (with a constant supply of tacos, of course!), it was enlightening to see the team members learn how their unique experiences impact both professional and personal lives. I, known for my colorful creativity and ridiculous sparkle, often bring a different perspective to a predominantly black-and-white environment. This diversity of thought and experience enhances teamwork and fosters trust, an essential element in any successful organization.

Growing Through Opposites

 I have learned to appreciate my strengths and actively seek out those whose strengths complement my weaknesses. Seeing other teams and organizations embrace this to foster collaboration and innovation is fun. This approach has been integral in my personal and professional development, pushing me to engage with people who challenge my ideas and help me build a solid foundation for my initiatives. It can also be an effective means to break down organizational silos that may be present.

The Game-Changing Nature of Self-Awareness

 The journey of self-awareness is indeed an eye-opener and a game-changer. It is about building connections, understanding each other’s fears and strengths, and creating a trusting, collaborative environment. If you’re curious about this journey, why not start with the Tony Robbins DISC assessment? You can access it for free here.