Mod 2 - My personal assessment

I can sometimes be overly critical of myself, I believe that is a trait many of us have.  In my approach to this assessment I tried to really be openminded about the questions and leaned upon a recent conversation with a professional friend.  We have recently been working together on a conflict resolution within a non-profit organization and he made some comments regarding my involvement in the process.  He sees my participation in a much different light than I do, so I tried to base my answers on a blend of the two opinions.

I scored a 72 which places me solidly in the center of the highest category.  I fall short in leadership by example.  I often do not handle stress well and in some situations find it difficult to lead by example.  It is perhaps my greatest challenge to overcome the 'do as I say, not as I do mentality."  My leadership is often impacted by the external environment, specifically the attitudes of others.  I find it easy to let the negativity of others impact my outlook.  I have tried to adopt the mantra that "I cannot control the actions of others, only my reaction to their actions."  I have good days (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays) and bad days.  There is a very definite theme to the bad days, but by putting this in print it gives voice to the issue and also enforces that I need to control my reaction to the situation. 

I am often complimented on my ability to troubleshoot a situation and facilitate transition.  I think well on my feet and understand the value of compromise.  When dealing with multiple personalities in trying to achieve a mutually acceptable outcome strong leadership in interpersonal skills is needed.  One must appear competent and in control while willing and able to interpret the views and opinions of others.  It is only through this reading that I understand that what I am good at is "situational leadership."  I am able to adapt how I handle a situation based upon the situation and the personalities involved. 

There are two personality characteristics that I struggle with, both require the above mentioned mantra.  I need to improve my reaction.  I struggle with having to provide leadership in a situation where I am working with significently less competent people, my patience for repetitive teaching is limited.  I see this challenge with a few particular people currently and have encountered this issue in the past.   I have developed a work around to the situation, yet it still remains a challenge to me to be able to handle a similar situation in the future.

I hope to continue to develop stronger interpersonal skills which will help eleviate the above mentioned shortcoming.  I am also in need of developing improved stress management skills.   I aspire to reach the point where I no longer have to repeat my mantra to myself, that it just becomes a seamless part of my personality.  I am influenced by a dynamic woman on a daily basis who as the skill, ability, talent, and natural tendency to handle both of these challenges and I keep hoping that through the process of osmosis that some of that skill will rub off on me.  I do believe that her leadership ability has had a positive impact upon me, but there is still much to learn.