Reflection: The Key to Unlocking Leadership Mastery

As professionals, we often acknowledge that reflection is what separates the extraordinary from the average. But let’s be honest—practicing reflection amidst the busyness of life is tough. It takes time, courage, and intentionality to pause, look back without bias or regret, and truly learn from our experiences.

This year, I revisited the value of reflection through a leadership lens, inspired by the Harvard Business Review article, Don’t Underestimate the Power of Self-Reflection. The piece identifies three themes—surprise, frustration, and failure—as especially powerful for growth. These, coupled with my own practice, reshaped how I engaged with 2024’s highs and lows.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Surprises highlight what we didn’t see coming, expanding our adaptability.

• Frustrations signal opportunities for improvement.

• Failures—while uncomfortable—are often the most impactful teachers.

A quote from The Power of Moments by Dan and Chip Heath encapsulated my reflection journey: "What’s indisputable is that when we assess our experiences, we don’t average our minute-by-minute sensations. Rather, we tend to remember flagship moments: the peaks, the pits, and the transitions."

As I reflect on the flagship moments of 2024, I’m reminded that mastery isn’t just about outcomes. It’s about the inputs—the surprises, frustrations, and failures—that shape who we are as leaders.

So, as you close out 2024, I encourage you to give yourself grace. Celebrate the successes and learn from the stumbles, because every step is part of your journey to reach new heights.

What surprised you most about your leadership journey in 2024?