Leadership is not an easy path and requires moving into areas that are uncomfortable, yet necessary for your growth. Practicing reflection and taking stock of your day is as important as being present, clear and focused in each moment. Reflection is a practice that has the greatest impact on your growth and development. The key to reflection is truly “taking stock” by selecting the right questions that provide your greatest growth.

“Reflection is one of the most underused yet powerful tools for success.” – Richard Carlson

Here are a few questions to effectively take stock of your day and leadership ability:

• How did my intentions impact others in meetings and conversations?
• Did each encounter support the forward progress of others and the goals?
• Where did I align my work to the vision? How did that feel?
• Where did I feel like I was my best self? What stands out in those moments?
• What skill did I try that made me uncomfortable?
• What went well?
• Did I speak my truth in a way which honors me and those around me?
• What am I not seeing that I need to see differently to come to a better solution, direction, or decision?
• Where I am open in my thinking?
• Where are projects and conversations flowing well?
• What new ideas or concepts are emerging?

These are but a few ideas. We have many more available through our Peer Advisory Groups. You can also add your own to a journal to come up with a realistic practice of “taking stock” by selecting the right questions to achieve your goals and work/life balance.

“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant.” – Robert Louis Stevenson

Build your portfolio of leadership by taking stock!