In the words of Harvard Business Review writer Anthony K. Tjan, “…there is one quality that trumps all, evident in virtually every great entrepreneur, manager, and leader. That quality is self-awareness. The best thing leaders can [do] to improve their effectiveness is to become more aware of what motivates them and their decision-making.”
When we become aware of a personal behavioral shortcoming or an area that needs improvement, will we begin to correct it without being conscious of making changes?
Behavior changes, can include attempting to eliminate using filler words such as: “um”, “uh”, “you know” “and” “like” in our presentations. Changing habits might also include our energy consumption in the workplace. Awareness of how we waste energy can be minimized by simply monitoring and tracking it.
In an #IFMA Kansas City Chapter Meeting today, Dennis Murphy, Chief Environmental Officer for the City of Kansas City, Missouri, shared information with the Chapter about the #Energy Empowerment Ordinance enacted in 2015. What I found especially encouraging is that when companies began to track their energy consumption and report it as required by the ordinance, their energy consumption decreased by 10%. No fancy program was initiated. Awareness was enough to make the decision to change.
Maybe my dad was right to keep reminding us to turn off the lights in a room as we left it. At my Bonner Springs Toastmasters Club, we track how often we use of filler words in speeches. I have almost eliminated that behavior simply by becoming aware of it.
What habits do you need to change? Start counting and tracking them. You’ll change! I guarantee it!
Mary Redmond is a top-rated female professional speaker, author, consultant and business coach. She is a negotiation and body language expert that instills confidence, inspiration and expert knowledge that sets up her audiences for success!