The Value of Self-Awareness II

Self-monitoring is the ability to observe what’s going on for you in the moment, including your thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. It’s about breaking out of autopilot and paying attention to how you're reacting in real time. While it’s not practical to monitor yourself constantly, periodic check-ins can help ensure you’re responding intentionally rather than impulsively.

You can develop self-monitoring skills by creating habits of checking in with yourself throughout the day. Pay attention to physical sensations, as they often indicate your emotional state. After intense situations, reflect on what went well and what didn’t, identifying any patterns that emerge. Coaching can also be helpful for improving self-monitoring. For instance, one manager overcame anxiety about submitting spreadsheets by analysing his thought patterns, challenging catastrophic assumptions, and learning relaxation techniques. With practice, self-monitoring becomes easier and can help you stay composed in stressful situations.

Interpersonal awareness is understanding how you come across to others and picking up on social cues. It builds on self-monitoring by combining awareness of your behaviour with an ability to notice dynamics in the room, such as facial expressions, energy levels, and shifts in atmosphere. Without this skill, it’s easy to overlook how your actions or status might affect those around you.

These skills ensure you’re making use of your self-knowledge and self-understanding in real-time situations. Self-monitoring helps you regulate your reactions, manage emotions, and stay composed, especially in stressful scenarios. Interpersonal awareness ensures that your behaviour and communication positively influence others and align with your goals. Together, they give you greater control over your actions and help foster better relationships at work.