In today's dynamic environment, effective leadership is not only about managing others; more importantly it involves the ability to manage oneself. The term "self-management" thus means being able to control one's emotions, thoughts and behaviour in a variety of situations, including stressful and critical ones. For managers and team leaders, it means being able to act with discretion, remain calm even under pressure, and focus on long-term goals. Now let's take a look at how and why you too might improve your self-management skills.
Why is self-management important?
As Addicted2Success.com explains, self-management allows you to be a steady support for the team, handle challenging situations with a cool head, and make considered decisions because, in addition to managing others, you focus on managing yourself. Well-managed self-management contributes to personal productivity, which in turn positively affects the performance of the entire team.
Key self-management skills
- Time management. Effective time management is essential. Learn to prioritise, set deadlines and avoid procrastination. An important part of time-management is the ability to delegate tasks to others when the situation calls for it. Properly managed time allows you to focus on key activities that produce long-term results.
- Emotional stability. Being able to regulate your emotions is essential, especially in challenging situations. When a manager demonstrates they can keep their composure, they also act as a role model for their team and encourage their subordinates to do the same. Learn to be aware of your emotions and don't act in an impulsive manner.
- Personal discipline. Good self-discipline means sticking to the plan and your goals even if, for example, your initial motivation has waned slightly. Discipline will also help you be a reliable leader who resists distractions and works consistently to develop yourself and your team.
- Personal development. Investing in oneself, whether through training, mentoring or self-reflection, allows leaders to keep up with market dynamics, as well as inspire subordinates to take care of their personal development too. By continuously educating yourself, you will be flexible and ready to face any obstacles, whether individually or as a whole team. And this will contribute to the overall growth and resilience of your team.
- Taking responsibility. Self-management includes taking responsibility for your own actions and decisions. A manager who accepts accountability builds trust within the team and fosters a culture of accountability throughout the organisation.
How to get started with self-management?
Start with small steps: set specific goals, measure your progress, and regularly reflect on your strengths and weaknesses. By improving your self-management, you will be better able to manage work pressure, develop yourself and your team, and achieve sustainable results.
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