– Leadership Blind Spots

Like driving a car, each of us has blind spots lurking somewhere over our shoulder. In a car, blind spots limit our clear vision. In a leader, blind spots hold us back from our true potential.

The good news is blind spots, those hidden traits that hinder our progress, can be fixed. When addressed and properly adjusted leaders not only improve their potential to work more effectively, they also improve their chances for success. “Instead of viewing them as weaknesses that need to be changed, approach your blind spots as doors to possibility—each door you open holds opportunity behind it,” says Sue Bethanis, Founder/CEO of Mariposa Leadership, Inc.

Bethanis goes on to say, “It’s better to know than not know. The more self aware leaders become, the more adept they will be at leading in a wide variety of settings.” Sue offers three ways leaders can locate their blind spots.

1. Ask yourself- Put yourself in someone else’s shoes. What do you see and hear? What would you change about you?
2. Ask others- Great leaders seek feedback and then act on it. One on one or in a group, ask others what they think are your leadership strengths and what areas need improvement.
3. Ask a coach- Leadership coaching is a highly effective way to locate blind spots. Coaches serve as confidential sounding boards, can interview others, and also offer valuable feedback.

Every leader has blind spots. Those that accept the challenge to locate them and then make proper adjustments, are the ones that will raise their game and achieve their maximum leadership potential. They’re the ones who refuse to be blindsided by their blind spots!