Four children in a short space of time - perhaps the best "leadership school" there is. There I was: one child in my arms, the other around my leg, one in kindergarten and the biggest in elementary school. At the same time, our home under construction was waiting for me in my role as builder.
It quickly became clear that leadership means much more than just giving instructions. Everyday life with my rascals showed me how crucial it is to have a grip on yourself, stay calm and make clear announcements - qualities that also make the difference in the job. My children became my best teachers.
What I learned was valuable for my private life and my professional development as a manager. Because one thing is clear: if you can lead yourself well, you will remain stable, clear and authentic even in stressful situations.
But why is this so crucial for managers? And what does it take to lead yourself successfully?
Self-leadership: the foundation of successful leadership
Self-leadership means taking the wheel and consciously deciding how you think, feel and act - especially in challenging moments. It is the ability to direct yourself and take responsibility for your own behavior. This includes clearly defining your own goals, reflecting on your values and allowing yourself to be guided by them.
In scientific terms, self-management is based on the self-regulation theory developed by Albert Bandura. Bandura describes how people can consciously control their thoughts and actions through goals, feedback and values. This theory shows that leadership does not start with the team, but with yourself.
However, self-leadership is more than just discipline. It means using your strengths in a targeted way, recognizing your limits and remaining flexible in challenging situations. It's about becoming your best coach and developing a stable inner compass to help you navigate through turbulent times.
Why self-leadership is so important
1. stay calm in turbulent times
As a manager, you are often the anchor in the storm. Your employees look to you for guidance and security. If you remain calm and clear yourself, you will radiate this stability to your team. Without self-leadership, you will quickly lose the overview - and therefore also the trust of your employees.
2. be a role model - authentic and credible
Managers are always in the spotlight. Your decisions, your attitude and your behavior are closely observed. Those who lead themselves well come across as confident, authentic and credible. These qualities create trust and motivation in the team.
The opposite is just as noticeable: insecure, hectic or rash behavior not only weakens your authority, but also the productivity of your team. By leading yourself, you set a strong example - and your team will follow your lead.
3. inner stability as the basis for strong teams
A healthy, motivated team needs a leader who is stable and clear. Your inner calm is transferred directly to your team and creates a working atmosphere that promotes openness, motivation and cooperation. Conflicts occur less frequently and collaboration becomes more effective.
The long-term benefits of self-management
Self-leadership not only pays off in everyday life, but also has long-term positive effects on your career. The most important benefits:
- More inner satisfaction:
Those who can lead themselves remain more relaxed and satisfied. With a clear inner compass, you can navigate safely through challenges and deal with pressure situations more confidently. - More efficient communication:
Clear and authentic communication creates trust and ensures that your team knows where they stand with you - especially in challenging moments. This reduces misunderstandings and strengthens collaboration. - Healthy teams:
Your inner stability acts as a multiplier: a motivated team works more effectively, harmoniously and without conflict. Employees feel more secure and can develop better. - Less conflict, more respect:
Those who manage themselves well remain confident and relaxed even under pressure. This attitude reduces conflicts and increases the respect of your employees. - Protection against overload:
Self-management is your personal shield against overload and burnout. You use your energy in a targeted manner, take care of your recovery and thus create the basis for long-term motivation and performance. - Personal development:
Self-management also means regular self-reflection. You recognize your strengths, learn from mistakes and continuously develop yourself - not only as a manager, but also personally.
Conclusion: Self-leadership is the key to confident leadership
Self-leadership is not just a skill - it is the foundation of all successful leadership. It strengthens your clarity, authenticity and resilience and makes you a leader who exudes confidence and provides guidance. By learning to manage yourself, you will not only become more efficient, but also more fulfilled and successful in the long term.
What does this mean for you?
Make self-management your priority!
Reflect regularly on your goals, strengthen your inner compass and use your energy consciously. Because only those who can lead themselves well will be able to lead others successfully - and stay healthy, motivated and satisfied in the process. So the question is not whether you should engage in self-management, but when you should start. Why not now?
