Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention in career success: self-awareness. Everyone’s racing to learn the latest AI tools or build their network, but here’s the truth: none of that matters if you don’t know who you are.
Most people are more self-unaware than they care to admit. They grind through their careers, chasing promotions or approval, without ever asking, “Who am I, really, and what do I bring to the table?”
Here’s why self-awareness is the hidden superpower for career success:
1. You stop following someone else’s script. Without self-awareness, you’re just checking off boxes others gave you. When you know what drives you, you create your own path—that’s where the magic happens.
2. You can identify your blind spots. Emotional intelligence (EQ) beats IQ today. Tasha Eurich, in her book 'Insight', says it best: “Self-awareness is the meta-skill of the 21st century.” If you don’t know where your strengths and weaknesses lie, how can you grow?
3. You connect better with others. When you’re clear on who you are, you communicate with authenticity. People sense that, and it builds trust. In a world of buzzwords and ‘personal branding,’ self-awareness lets you be real.
Most people skip this work because it’s hard. It’s easier to sign up for "10 Ways to Land a Job" than to ask yourself, “Why am I doing this? What do I really want?” But until you do, you’ll never truly tap into your potential.
Here’s my challenge: take a hard look in the mirror. Not just once, but regularly. Ask yourself the tough questions. You might be surprised at what you find—and how it can transform your career and life.
If you don’t know yourself, how can anyone else truly see your value?
Become so good at Tableau that you don't need me • Founder @ Next-Level Tableau • Tableau Visionary Hall of Fame • DataIQ Top 100 Most Influential People in Data • Author & Speaker
1wAnd you demonstrate this every day. You are one of the kindest people I've ever met.