When Everyone’s Above Average
In leadership, many of us attribute personal successes to our skills and blame failures on external events. This self-serving tendency attempts to bolster our self-worth but often does so subconsciously. We may not even realize we’re engaging in this mental exercise, which can limit our growth as leaders. My work with the transformative KASH Method (Knowledge, Attitude, Skills, Habits) leadership coaching method often involves guiding executives to recognize these deceptive patterns and overcome them to lead more effectively.
Leadership isn’t just about what we want to believe in; it demands a grounded reflection in real-world experiences. These experiences help us recognize our motivations, which often subtly process information that aligns with our self-image. This biased processing creates scenarios where leaders inadvertently ignore essential feedback, only reinforcing what they perceive as their strengths.
Consider a survey of 1 million high-school seniors:
- 70% believed they were above average in leadership ability.
- Only 2% thought they were generally below average.
- 60% thought they were in the top 10%.
- About 25% considered themselves in the top 1%.
Similarly, university professors revealed that 94% considered themselves more competent than their average peer. This illustrates a common disconnect between perceived and actual capability. While confidence is crucial, overconfidence can erode essential relationships and limit professional growth. It drives leaders to prioritize self-justification over collaboration, ultimately stifling the empathy needed within team dynamics.
Leadership thrives on understanding and empathy. When leaders become fixated on proving their self-worth, they spend excessive time defending actions instead of fostering understanding with their teams. This self-focus hinders effective communication and reduces compassionate engagement with others’ perspectives.
The KASH Method encourages leaders to explore subconscious biases and examine the habits that trap them in comfort zones. By focusing primarily on cultivating empathy and actively listening to diverse viewpoints, executives can reshape their attitudes and strategies. Overcoming bias requires leaders to engage with varied perspectives, consult individuals with opposing views, and remain open to constructive criticism.
Unchecked biases keep leaders from seeing the real value in humility and vulnerability. These are not signs of weakness but are pivotal for authentic leadership. In doing so, leaders can dismantle preconceptions, leading to enriched personal development and stronger team cohesion. By examining our attitudes with objective eyes and embracing purposeful habits, we can foster a leadership style that encourages growth, trust, and genuine connection.
Creator of the KASHBOX: Knowledge, Attitude, Skills, Habits
Helping You Realize Your Potential
I help people discover their potential, expand and develop the skills and attitudes necessary to achieve a higher degree of personal and professional success and create a plan that enables them to balance the profit motives of their business with the personal motives of their lives.
