In reading this chapter I was reminded about 1 Corinthians chapter 11. A loose paraphrase is judge yourself so that you may not be judged. We need to understand and work to improve our shortcomings / limitations when working with others and not just ignore our weaknesses.
Some of the points Steve Succone brought out:
If we want to gain an accurate view of ourselves, we must consistently invest in our internal growth potential, not just in our external success. An unexamined life is an ineffective life (mentioned in The Harvard Business Review article).
As our self-awareness goes up, our relational intelligence goes up.
Steve mentions three habits (habits - they are not something you do once, they are intended to become a new way of living).
Learn to Access the Perceptions of Those Around you. When you do this, make sure it is coming from a reliable source
Learn to Activate the Reflective Mind Within you. Think back on various activities / actions and their various outcomes. If we try to become more self aware, we will hurt people less, help people more, and create a distinctly more positive relational culture around us.
Write Clarifying Statements. This helps to define our blind spots which in turn will help in addressing a solution or course of action to correct and over come them.
Great summary Mike! How did this chapter affect YOU? Do you practice any of these things? Do you have honest relationships in your life? Don't hold back - get personal. :o) That's when these principles become very powerful.
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