The Self Aware Leader with Jason Rigby Jason Rigby

Hey everyone,
I've always believed in the power of personal growth, especially as a self aware leader. Recently, I've been diving deep again into Stephen R. Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," and it's been a game-changer. I wanted to share some of my takeaways and how I'm applying these habits to my own leadership journey.
Habit 1: Be Proactive
This one's all about taking ownership. I've realized that I have more control over my environment and outcomes than I sometimes give myself credit for. I'm making a conscious effort to be more accountable and proactive in my decision-making.
Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind
Having a clear vision is so important. I'm taking the time to really define my long-term goals, both personally and for my team. This helps me make sure my actions are aligned with where I want to be in the future.
Habit 3: Put First Things First
Prioritization is key! I'm learning to focus on what truly matters, rather than just reacting to the loudest demands. This involves some tough choices, but it's incredibly freeing to know I'm working on the right things.
Habit 4: Think Win-Win
Collaboration is at the heart of this habit. I'm striving to create a team environment where everyone feels valued and we all work together towards shared goals. It's about finding solutions that benefit everyone involved.
Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood
Listening is a skill I'm constantly working on. Before jumping to conclusions, I'm trying to truly understand where my team members are coming from. This has already led to better communication and stronger relationships.
Habit 6: Synergize
This is where the magic happens! When we combine our diverse skills and perspectives, we can achieve amazing things. I'm encouraging more brainstorming and creative collaboration within my team, and it's been exciting to see the results.
Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw
Self-care is not selfish, it's essential. I'm making sure to prioritize my own learning, health, and well-being. It's like the old saying goes, you can't pour from an empty cup. I want to be the best version of myself for my team and those I lead.
I'm still on this journey, and it's an ongoing process. But re-incorporating these habits into my leadership style has already made a noticeable difference. I'm more focused, more effective, and I feel a deeper connection with my team. I hope this inspires you to explore the 7 Habits as well!
Your friend,
Jason

Every System is Perfectly Designed... To Change Your Perspective Have you ever found yourself caught in a cycle of frustration, questioning why you and your team keep hitting the same walls despite your best efforts? I've been there too, feeling the weight of repeated failures and the temptation to point fingers at myself or others. But then I came across a profound insight from W. Edwards Deming, a pioneer in quality management, who famously said, "Every system is perfectly designed to get the results it gets." This single statement has the power to transform how we, as self-aware leaders, approach our challenges in both business and life.
The System is the Culprit, Not You Deming's quote is not about resigning to fate but rather a powerful invitation to adopt a systems thinking mindset. Here's a deeper dive into what this means:
The System: This encompasses every aspect of our environment, from processes and procedures to our mindset and the overarching culture. It’s the complex web of interconnected factors that drive outcomes.
Perfectly Designed: This phrase doesn’t imply that the system is flawless in a positive sense. Instead, it means that the system is producing the exact results it’s set up to achieve. If those results are less than desirable, it’s a sign that the system itself needs reworking.
Results: These are the end products, both intended and unintended, of the system’s design.
Embracing the Principle for Self-Aware Leadership Here’s how I’ve come to apply Deming’s principle in my journey as a leader, and how you can too:
Own the Results: It’s easy to blame individuals when things go wrong, but true leadership involves taking ownership of the system's outcomes. If your team is underperforming, consider that it’s likely a systemic issue rather than a few bad performers.
Challenge Assumptions: Take a critical look at your existing processes. Are they truly efficient? Does your company culture genuinely support the values you stand by? Sometimes, the systems we’ve grown accustomed to need a fundamental reevaluation.
Focus on Improvement, Not Blame: Shifting from blame to problem-solving is crucial. When you understand that the system is flawed, you can direct your energy towards identifying and rectifying those flaws rather than assigning blame.
Experiment and Iterate: Don’t shy away from trying new approaches. Experimentation is key to finding better ways to achieve desired outcomes. Test, measure, and adjust continuously—each iteration is a step towards refining the system.
Lead with Empathy: Recognize that people are integral parts of the system. Understand their challenges and actively involve them in the problem-solving process. Empathy fosters a collaborative environment where everyone is committed to improvement.
Applying Deming's Principle in Your Life Deming’s insights aren’t confined to the professional realm. They can significantly impact our personal lives as well:
Fitness: If achieving your fitness goals feels like an uphill battle, scrutinize your system. Is your diet plan realistic? Does your routine accommodate regular exercise?
Relationships: Recurring conflicts might signal deeper, systemic issues in communication or expectations. Evaluating these patterns can help address the root causes.
Happiness: If you’re feeling unfulfilled, consider how your daily habits and choices contribute to this state. Small systemic changes in your routine can lead to a profound improvement in your overall well-being.
A Real-World Example: The Toyota Production System The Toyota Production System (TPS) is a shining example of Deming’s philosophy in practice. TPS focuses on continuous improvement, root cause analysis, and empowering employees to identify and solve problems. This approach has led to Toyota’s outstanding quality and efficiency, demonstrating the power of a well-designed system.
Conclusion: Empowering Change Through Awaren

As a leader, I often grapple with an unsettling feeling – that people are against me. It's a heavy burden to bear, casting shadows on even the brightest days. Perhaps you've felt this too, my fellow leader. It's a lonely path, one that can make us question our purpose and abilities.
The Spiritual Roots of My Struggle
In my heart, I believe this struggle is more than just professional challenges or interpersonal conflicts. It's a spiritual battle, a tug-of-war between my ego and my higher self. My ego, driven by a need for validation and control, whispers in my ear, convincing me that I am constantly under attack. It magnifies negativity, distorting my perception of reality.
I've come to realize that this ego-driven perspective is a defense mechanism, a shield against perceived threats to my identity and self-worth. It's a natural human response, but one that can be incredibly damaging.
Why Does My Ego Act This Way?
Deep down, my ego is trying to protect me. It sees any challenge or criticism as a threat, a potential blow to my self-esteem. This defensive stance creates a sense of separation and isolation, feeding the illusion that I am alone in my struggle.
But I am learning to see through this illusion. I am beginning to understand that my worth as a leader is not defined by external validation or the approval of others. True leadership comes from within, from a place of self-assurance and unwavering faith in my purpose.
The Path to Self-Awareness
My journey toward self-awareness has been a winding road, filled with moments of both triumph and despair. It's an ongoing process, but one that I embrace with open arms.
I've learned to reflect on my feelings, exploring the triggers and patterns that fuel my sense of victimization. I challenge negative thoughts, seeking evidence to support or refute them. I practice mindfulness, grounding myself in the present moment and observing my thoughts and emotions without judgment.
I seek feedback from trusted colleagues and mentors, welcoming their insights and perspectives. I embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, recognizing that true strength is forged in the fires of adversity.
Questions That Guide My Journey
Along this path, I ask myself:
What evidence do I have that people are against me?
Am I interpreting the situation accurately, or am I letting my ego distort my perception?
How can I respond to this situation from a place of strength and compassion rather than defensiveness?
What can I learn from this experience to become a better leader?
Affirmations That Strengthen My Resolve
I repeat these affirmations to myself, like a mantra:
I am in control of my thoughts and emotions.
I choose to see challenges as opportunities for growth.
I am confident in my abilities as a leader.
I release the need for external validation and trust in my inner wisdom.
I am surrounded by supportive and understanding people.
Embracing Vulnerability as a Leader
My journey as a leader is not just about guiding others; it's about guiding myself. It's about embracing vulnerability, acknowledging my struggles, and sharing my story with others who may be facing similar challenges.
I believe that true leadership is born from authenticity and compassion. It's about recognizing our shared humanity and supporting each other on our individual paths.
I invite you, my fellow leader, to join me on this journey of self-discovery. Let us embrace our vulnerabilities, challenge our egos, and lead with open hearts and open minds. Together, we can create a world where leaders are not defined by their struggles, but by their courage to face them.

Hey Self-Aware Leaders,
I've been diving into Jocko Willink's book "The Dichotomy of Leadership," and it's sparked some serious reflection on the role of humility in leadership. As someone who's committed to personal growth and self-awareness, I believe this is a topic we all need to grapple with.
Jocko makes a bold statement: "Humility is the most important quality in a leader." Now, that might seem counterintuitive in a world that often celebrates confidence and charisma. But hear me out.
The Ego Trap
Ego can be a powerful motivator, but it can also be a dangerous trap. When our egos get inflated, we become resistant to feedback, blind to our own shortcomings, and unable to learn and grow. We start to believe that we have all the answers, which is a recipe for stagnation and failure.
Think about it: how many times have you seen talented leaders derail their careers because they couldn't check their egos? It happens all the time.
The Power of Humility
Humility, on the other hand, opens up a world of possibilities. It allows us to:
Listen: To truly hear and understand the perspectives of others, even when they disagree with us.
Learn: To continuously seek out new knowledge and skills, recognizing that we always have more to learn.
Lead: To build trust and respect with our teams by acknowledging our own limitations and empowering others.
The Micromanagement Myth
One area where humility plays a crucial role is in managing up. We often blame our bosses for micromanaging, but Jocko argues that the solution lies in leadership, not complaining. When we take extreme ownership of our work and performance, we naturally earn more autonomy and trust from our superiors.
Checking Your Ego
So, how can we cultivate humility in our own leadership? Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
Am I open to feedback, even when it's difficult to hear?
Do I actively seek out opportunities to learn and grow?
Am I willing to admit my mistakes and take responsibility for my actions?
Do I value the contributions of my team members and empower them to succeed?
These are tough questions, but they're essential for any leader who wants to reach their full potential. Remember, humility isn't about weakness or passivity. It's about having the courage to confront your own ego and embrace a mindset of continuous improvement.
Let's be honest with ourselves, acknowledge our flaws, and commit to becoming more humble leaders. The rewards will be worth it, both for ourselves and for those we lead.

Hey Self-Aware Leaders,
Today's episode is a special one, inspired by a recent conversation I had with a friend who's leading a team through some major uncertainty. It got me thinking about a powerful concept I stumbled upon in the Harvard Business Review: the importance of developing a clear vision when managing ambiguity.
Now, I know what you're thinking – "Vision? That's easy to say, but how do I actually create one when everything feels up in the air?" Trust me, I get it. As leaders, we're constantly navigating the unknown, and it can be tempting to just react to whatever comes our way.
But here's the thing: when we don't have a clear vision, we're like ships without a rudder, tossed about by the waves of uncertainty. We lose sight of our goals, our values, and what truly matters. And that's when things can really start to unravel.
So, what does it mean to develop a clear vision in the midst of ambiguity?
It's about more than just setting a goal or having a plan. It's about defining what success looks like for you and your team, even when the path forward is unclear.
I love the example they shared in the article about parents trying to raise "good kids." The definition of a "good kid" is different for every family. For some, it might mean academic success, while for others, it might mean strong family connections or athletic achievements. The key is to identify what matters most to you and use that as your guiding light.
So, how do we do this in our own leadership roles?
Here are a few self aware questions to get you started:
What are the core values that guide your decision-making?
What does success look like for your team, your organization, or even your personal life?
How can you align your actions with those values and goals, even when faced with uncertainty?
Once you have a clear vision in mind, it's like having a compass that points you in the right direction, no matter how turbulent the waters get.
Remember, a vision isn't a rigid plan. It's a flexible framework that allows you to adapt and adjust as new information emerges. But it's also a powerful tool that can give you the confidence and clarity you need to lead with purpose, even when the path ahead is uncertain.
So, my fellow self-aware leaders, let's commit to developing a clear vision, not just for our organizations, but for our own lives. Let's embrace the unknown with courage and clarity, knowing that we have the power to create our own success.
Until next time, keep leading with awareness!

Hey friends,
I've been pondering a quote by Dennis Waitley lately, and it's got me thinking about the language we use as leaders – and how it shapes our reality.
Waitley said: "Winners say, 'I must, I can, I will.' Losers say, 'I should have, I could have, I wish I had.'"
Now, before you roll your eyes at another motivational quote, hear me out. As someone who's committed to the journey of self-awareness and higher thinking, I believe this quote offers a powerful insight into the connection between our thoughts, our words, and our results.
The Inner Dialogue of a Winner
Think about the winner's language for a moment:
I must: There's a fire in this phrase, a sense of purpose and urgency. It speaks to a deep-rooted belief that the goal is not just desirable, but essential.
I can: This is pure confidence, a trust in one's abilities and resilience. It's the voice that says, "Challenges are opportunities for growth, and I'm up for the task."
I will: This is the ultimate commitment, a vow to take action and see it through. It's a recognition that our choices and efforts are what drive our progress.
This is the kind of self-talk that propels us forward, that empowers us to create the reality we envision.
The Trap of the Loser's Language
Now, let's shift gears and look at the loser's language:
I should have: Ah, the familiar sting of regret. This phrase anchors us in the past, replaying missed chances and what-ifs.
I could have: This is the voice of unfulfilled potential, whispering about paths not taken and possibilities left unexplored.
I wish I had: This is the final surrender to longing, a resignation to a reality that feels out of reach.
While these phrases might seem harmless, they can create a mental and emotional prison. They keep us trapped in a cycle of self-blame and inaction, preventing us from moving forward.
Rewriting Your Script
So, how do we shift our internal dialogue from loser to winner? It's not about denying the past or ignoring our shortcomings. It's about choosing a more empowering narrative:
Awareness: Pay attention to your thoughts and words. Notice when you slip into the loser's language and gently challenge those patterns.
Reframing: Replace those self-defeating phrases with more positive affirmations. Instead of "I should have," try "Next time, I will." Instead of "I could have," declare "I am capable."
Action: Turn your words into reality. Take steps towards your goals, even if they're small ones. Every action reinforces your commitment and strengthens your belief in yourself.
The Choice is Yours
Remember, you have the power to choose the story you tell yourself. The words you use matter because they shape your perception of reality. By consciously shifting your language, you can unlock a new level of self-belief and create a life that truly reflects your potential.
As always, I'm here with you on this journey of self-discovery and growth. Keep leading with awareness, my friends!