THE CLIENT WISDOM BLOG PUBLISHED BY MBT MORE BUSINESS TODAY LLC
Recently, I attended an event and was exposed to a machine that takes a 360 degree video of anyone willing to stand on a rotating pedestal for a few seconds. My friend, Brandy Riley, stood there with me and we danced together. When I looked at the video, I noticed several things:
- Brandy turned her head and her body toward the camera. I had not thought to do that.
- The back of my head did not look that great. I need new conditioner!
- I was not as present in the moment as I could have been.
What was I thinking? I learned so much about myself from this brief encounter. I have to share it with you!
First, we all need to actively look for our blind spots. This idea comes through daily when working with clients on mindset. Every week during a coaching call or time intentionally blocked off on the calendar, clients focus on thinking about their actions and reactions. This is one way to identify patterns that might be harmful to your success and to those around you.
If we do not recognize our blind spots, ask for feedback or take a leadership assessment. The next time I have a haircut, I will ask my stylist about the back of my head. Should I use a different conditioner or shampoo? Likewise, I advise clients to ask their colleagues and customers for feedback. The best way to improve is to understand what areas need to be improved. Another way to find blind spots is to take a leadership or personality assessment. Most coaches utilize an assortment of assessments that help individuals and teams identify areas for improvement.
Take a look behind and learn from the past. Several of my clients spend a few minutes at the end of each day thinking about things they did well, where they can improve, and how they want to show up the following day. This journaling exercise has helped many of my clients, because it quickly becomes a habit that keeps their goals in front of them every day. For others, looking back at the year in order to celebrate successes, learn from challenges, and plan for the future is enough.
Finally, be fully present. In the video above, I went with the flow and did not think about the best way to show up. Many of us get caught up thinking about what we will do or say next rather than experiencing the moment. I wish I had been more aware. The video might have been better, but then I would not have learned so much from it.
Get in the habit of looking behind you and in front of you. It is important to first be present in the moment and then to recognize blind spots and learn from the past.
For more information contact Mary Balistreri, The Mindful Business Coach at mary@mbtmorebusinesstodayllc.com