The Self Aware Leader with Jason Rigby

Awakening Your Inner Giant: My Personal Take on Tony Robbins' Actionable Steps

Hey there, Self Aware leaders!

I recently revisited Tony Robbins' masterpiece, "Awaken the Giant Within." It's a treasure trove of practical wisdom for personal transformation. Today, I want to share my personal perspective on some of the key actionable steps that have resonated with me.

1. Raising My Standards

It all starts with a decision. A decision to refuse mediocrity. To stop tolerating anything less than the best version of myself. I've started setting higher standards for myself in every area of life. It's not about being perfect, it's about striving for excellence. It's about pushing my boundaries and refusing to settle.

2. Changing My Limiting Beliefs

We all carry beliefs that hold us back. For me, it was the nagging voice saying "I'm not good enough" or "Success isn't for me." I'm actively working on replacing those limiting beliefs with empowering ones. Every day, I remind myself that I'm capable of achieving anything I set my mind to.

3. The Power of Decision

Decisions shape our destiny. I'm learning to make more empowering decisions, even small ones, every day. It's about being decisive, taking action, and learning from the outcomes.

4. Mastering My Emotions

Emotions can be powerful, but we don't have to be their slaves. I'm practicing taking control of my emotional state. Whether it's through changing my physiology, focusing on positive thoughts, or using empowering language, I'm learning to cultivate a positive, resourceful state.

5. Taking Massive Action

It's not enough to just have a plan. It's about taking immediate, massive action towards our goals. I'm breaking down my big goals into smaller steps and taking action every single day. It's about progress, not perfection.

6. Focusing on Results, Not Activities

Busyness doesn't always equal productivity. I'm learning to focus on the results I want to achieve. Every day, I ask myself: "What's the most important thing I can do today to move closer to my goal?"

7. Pain and Pleasure

This one is powerful. I'm associating massive pain with the idea of staying stuck and massive pleasure with taking action towards my goals. It's a simple but effective way to push through resistance.

8. Modeling Success

There's so much we can learn from those who have already achieved what we want. I'm actively seeking out mentors and role models. It's about studying their strategies, mindset, and actions.

9. Setting Clear, Compelling Goals

Goals need to be more than just wishes. I'm setting SMART goals and visualizing the outcomes with emotional intensity. It's about creating a clear picture of where I want to go.

10. Practicing Gratitude

Gratitude is a game-changer. I'm making it a daily practice to focus on what I'm grateful for. It shifts my focus from lack to abundance and puts me in a more resourceful state.

11. Neuro-Associative Conditioning (NAC)

This is about rewiring our minds to associate pleasure with positive behaviors and pain with negative ones. I'm identifying triggers for my bad habits and creating new, positive responses.

12. Changing My Environment

Our environment shapes us. I'm surrounding myself with positive, supportive people and creating a physical environment that supports my goals.

13. Committing to Lifelong Learning

Growth is a lifelong journey. I'm committed to continually educating myself and expanding my knowledge.

My Journey Continues

These are just a few of the steps I'm taking on my journey of personal transformation. It's an ongoing process, but I'm already seeing positive changes in my life and leadership.

Remember, Self Aware leaders, we have the power to awaken our inner giant. It's about taking action, pushing our boundaries, and constantly striving for growth.

Let's continue this journey together!

Leadership is a demanding path. We're constantly navigating complex challenges, making tough decisions, and trying to inspire those around us. But in the midst of all this, it's easy to lose sight of our own personal growth and spiritual well-being.

Recently, I embarked on a 12-stage journey towards spiritual transformation. I'm excited to share the first three stages with you today. My hope is that my experiences might resonate with you, or perhaps even inspire you on your own path.

1. Awakening Awareness

Understanding and Admitting My Limitations

The first step was about waking up. I had to look in the mirror and honestly acknowledge that I don't have all the answers. As leaders, we often feel the pressure to appear infallible, but the truth is, we're all human. Admitting my limitations wasn't easy, but it was an act of courage. It opened the door to growth, allowing me to seek help, learn from others, and foster a more collaborative environment.

Realizing That My Current Path Is Unsustainable

I also came to the realization that the way I was operating was simply not sustainable. The relentless pursuit of goals without self-care was leading to burnout. This wasn't just affecting me personally, it was impacting my team and my overall effectiveness as a leader. Recognizing this was a pivotal moment. It became clear that I needed to make a change—not just for myself but for everyone who depended on me.

Exercises in Self-Awareness and Mindfulness

To cultivate this newfound awareness, I started incorporating mindfulness practices into my daily routine. Simple exercises like mindful breathing, journaling, and taking short breaks throughout the day to reflect helped me stay present. These practices increased my self-awareness, reduced stress, and improved my decision-making skills. I found that when I was more attuned to my own thoughts and feelings, I could lead with greater empathy and clarity.

2. Recognizing Universal Connection

Accepting That a Greater Wisdom or Energy Can Guide Us

The second stage involved recognizing that we're all part of something larger than ourselves. I started to accept that there's a greater wisdom or energy that can guide us if we're open to it. This wasn't about adopting a specific religious belief but about embracing the idea that we're interconnected with the world around us.

Exploring Various Spiritual Traditions and Beliefs

I began exploring different spiritual traditions and philosophies—reading about Buddhism, Stoicism, and even delving into indigenous wisdom. Each offered unique insights into the human experience and our connection to the universe. This exploration broadened my perspective, allowing me to see beyond the immediate challenges of leadership and consider the bigger picture.

Meditation Practices to Connect with the Universe

Meditation became a key practice during this stage. Techniques like loving-kindness meditation helped me cultivate compassion, while mindfulness meditation improved my focus and presence. These practices not only enhanced my personal well-being but also had a positive impact on how I interacted with my team and approached problem-solving.

3. Embracing Surrender

Letting Go of Control and Trusting the Process

Perhaps the most challenging step was learning to embrace surrender. As a leader, I'm used to being in control, steering the ship, and ensuring everything goes according to plan. But I realized that clinging too tightly to control was limiting possibilities. By letting go and trusting the process, I opened myself up to new ideas and solutions that I might have otherwise overlooked.

Developing Faith in a Higher Self or Universal Intelligence

I started to develop faith—not necessarily in a religious sense but in the belief that there's a higher self or universal intelligence at play. This faith allowed me to trust that things would work out as they should, even if the path wasn't immediately clear. It brought a sense of peace and reduced the anxiety that often accompanies leadership responsibilities.

Practical Techniques for Surrendering Ego

To surrender my ego, I practiced active listening and encouraged feedback from my team. I made a conscious effort to value others' opinions and admit when I didn't have all the answers. This not only built trust within the team but also fostered a more innovative and collaborative environment. By stepping back, I empowered others to step forward, which ultimately strengthened the organization as a whole.

Conclusion

Embarking on this spiritual journey has been transformative, both personally and professionally. By awakening awareness, recognizing our universal connection, and embracing surrender, I've become more attuned to myself and those around me. These stages have helped me lead with greater authenticity, compassion, and effectiveness.

I encourage you, fellow leaders, to consider your own path. Maybe some of these experiences resonate with you, or perhaps they inspire you to explore new avenues of growth. Remember, leadership isn't just about guiding others; it's also about evolving ourselves.

I'm excited to continue sharing my journey with you. In my next three blog posts, I'll delve into the next nine stages of my spiritual transformation. Stay tuned!

As a self-aware leader, I’ve learned that one of the biggest challenges we face isn’t external—it’s the internal battle with our own ego. Ego can be tricky; it often disguises itself as confidence or ambition, which is why many leaders don’t even realize when it's in control. But make no mistake: if left unchecked, ego will slowly erode your leadership, relationships, and your team's ability to thrive.

I’ve fallen into the ego trap myself, and I’m not afraid to admit it. The ego wants to be in the spotlight, to be the one with all the answers, and to silence dissent. It makes us defensive when we should be open, and it compels us to micromanage when we should be empowering others. Worse, it leads us to take credit for victories and deflect blame when things go wrong. Sound familiar?

Let’s be real: we’ve all been there. Whether you're a business leader, military officer, or spiritual guide, that voice inside sometimes says, “You did this. You made it happen. You’re indispensable.” While this might feel good in the moment, it’s a destructive path. When ego takes the wheel, the vehicle of leadership runs off course, and the collateral damage is trust, creativity, and collaboration.

The first step to taming the ego is self-awareness. You have to recognize when your ego is running the show. Here are some signs I’ve encountered in my own journey:

• Feeling threatened by differing opinions. Do you bristle when someone challenges your perspective?
• Taking all the credit. Do you struggle to share the wins with your team?
• Blaming others for failure. Do you instinctively look for scapegoats when things go wrong?

If you see yourself in any of these, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Self-awareness isn’t a destination; it’s an ongoing process. So, what can we do about it?

1. Cultivate Humility

It’s crucial to remind ourselves that we don’t have all the answers. No matter how much experience we accumulate, there's always something to learn. This can be hard for those of us who’ve been rewarded for our confidence and decisiveness. But humility isn’t about shrinking away from responsibility—it’s about knowing that leadership is a team effort. I’ve found that when I actively ask for input, especially from less experienced team members, I get fresh perspectives that would’ve been lost if I let my ego dominate.

2. Practice Active Listening

Too often, leaders think they’re listening when really, they’re waiting for their turn to speak. Active listening is about being present and fully engaged with what’s being said. It’s not just about hearing words; it’s about understanding the emotions, intentions, and perspectives behind them. I’ve had to train myself to ask more questions and offer fewer answers. Doing this doesn’t just help me grow—it empowers my team to own their contributions and ideas.

3. Admit Your Mistakes

We all screw up. What separates a good leader from a great one is the ability to own it when we do. I’ve found that apologizing—especially when my ego’s been the culprit—creates an environment of transparency. It shows my team that it’s okay to fail, as long as we own our missteps and learn from them. I once had a situation where I got frustrated and lashed out. Later, I went back, apologized, and said, “That was my ego talking.” That simple act of owning my fault didn’t just mend the relationship—it deepened the trust and respect within the team.

4. Celebrate the Success of Others

Leadership isn’t about being the hero—it’s about creating heroes. If you're always the one getting the praise, you're limiting your team's growth. I’ve made it a personal mission to give credit away, and it’s transformed how my team operates. When people feel seen and valued for their contributions, they bring more to the table. As leaders, it’s our job to recognize and uplift, not hoard the spotlight.

5. Coach Your Team on Ego Awareness

It’s not just about managing your own ego; part of your role as a leader is to help your team manage theirs. Encourage self-reflection and provide constructive feedback. When someone’s ego is harming the team dynamic, have an honest conversation. Ask them to consider how their actions are affecting the bigger picture. High performers in particular crave this type of coaching—don’t shy away from it.

Conclusion

Taming the ego is an ongoing challenge for all leaders. It requires constant self-awareness and a willingness to confront our shortcomings. But when we get it right, the benefits are immense. We create an environment where people feel valued, where creativity can flourish, and where trust isn’t just an ideal, but a lived reality.

If you’re serious about leading well, it starts with checking your ego at the door. Create space for humility, active listening, and vulnerability. In doing so, you’ll unlock not just your own potential but the full potential of your team.

After all, leadership isn’t about being the strongest, smartest, or most confident—it’s about guiding others to discover their own strength, wisdom, and confidence.

Remember: The ego is not your enemy, but it must be kept in its place.

Hey there, leaders!

Just got back from an amazing trip to the Pacific Northwest, where I spent some time reflecting on the power of nature and how its principles can be applied to leadership. Today, I want to share some insights on how we can harness the natural flow of creation to build stronger businesses and teams.

We're going to dive into three fundamental laws that I believe are key to unlocking your leadership potential. These aren't just abstract concepts; they're practical tools you can implement right away.

1. The Law of Origin and Interconnectedness (Cause and Effect)

In nature, every action triggers a reaction. The same is true in business. Every decision you make, no matter how small, sends ripples throughout your organization. As leaders, we need to be mindful of the potential consequences of our choices and take responsibility for their impact.

Remember, your actions shape your company culture. If you want a positive, collaborative environment, you need to model respectful communication and recognize the contributions of every team member. Celebrate successes, big and small, and foster a sense of interconnectedness where everyone feels valued.

2. The Law of Reciprocity (Interaction)

The law of reciprocity is simple: give, and you shall receive. In business, this means fostering positive relationships with your customers, partners, and community. When you genuinely value interactions and go the extra mile, you'll create meaningful connections that lead to loyalty and growth.

As a leader, your communication style sets the tone for the entire organization. Model respectful collaboration, and you'll cultivate a supportive environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute their best.

3. The Law of Growth and Purpose (Motion & Striving)

Nature is constantly evolving and adapting. To stay ahead in business, we need to embrace a similar mindset of continuous improvement and innovation. Define a clear mission and vision for your company, and inspire your team with a compelling purpose.

Encourage personal and professional development, and set ambitious goals that challenge everyone to reach their full potential. Remember, challenges are simply opportunities for growth. Embrace them, learn from them, and keep striving for greatness.

These three laws are just the beginning. There's so much more to explore in the world of creational leadership. I encourage you to delve deeper, experiment, and discover how these principles can transform your business and your life.

Remember, leadership is a journey, not a destination. Let's keep learning, growing, and evolving together.

Until next time,

Stay self-aware!

As an introverted leader, I've always been fascinated by the dynamics of human interaction, especially when it comes to building and nurturing relationships. If you're like me, you might find social interactions a bit draining, but also recognize their immense value. So, how do we balance our need for solitude with the essential task of forging meaningful connections?

Introversion as a Strength

Contrary to popular belief, introversion isn't a weakness. In fact, it's a superpower! Our introverted nature grants us unique strengths like deep thinking, active listening, and empathy. We thrive in one-on-one conversations, and we excel at truly understanding others' perspectives. However, our preference for introspection can sometimes make initiating new relationships a challenge.

The Dance of Human Interaction

I've come to realize that human interactions often follow a fascinating pattern. It all starts with avoidance. It's natural to feel hesitant when meeting someone new. But as leaders, we need to step out of our comfort zones and actively engage. This leads us to the competition phase, where we exchange ideas, energy, and sometimes even clash. It's through this intense interaction that we establish a dynamic of compliance, which helps define the power structure in the relationship.

The final and most rewarding phase is mutual understanding. It's that beautiful moment when we realize that even with our differences, we can find common ground. We might even "agree to disagree," but we do so with respect and a shared understanding of each other's positions.

Building Trust and Influence

To build influence as a leader, we need to guide individuals through these phases of interaction. It all starts with overcoming avoidance and encouraging genuine engagement. This aligns perfectly with the concept of "know, like, and trust" (KLT). Relationships begin with getting to know someone, and that requires overcoming initial hesitations.

Once we engage, we navigate through competition and compliance, fostering a sense of liking—even if it's not a deep connection. Trust, interestingly, can blossom unexpectedly through prolonged exposure. We don't necessarily need to deeply like someone to trust them. Trust often arises from observing predictable behavior patterns. It's about knowing that someone will consistently deliver, even if we don't always agree with their methods.

Embracing the Journey

Building relationships as an introverted leader is an ongoing journey. It requires us to step outside our comfort zones, actively engage with others, and embrace the different phases of human interaction. Remember, our introverted superpowers make us uniquely equipped to foster deep, meaningful connections that can propel us to new heights of leadership success.

What are your experiences as an introverted leader? I'd love to hear your thoughts and insights!

Hey leaders, Jason Rigby here, your host of The Self-Aware Leader Podcast. Today, we're diving into the first three of the 11 Leadership Principles of the United States Marine Corps (link here for PDF). These principles aren't just for the military – they hold powerful insights for any self aware leader looking to excel.

Principle 1: Know Yourself and Seek Self-Improvement

This is the foundation of leadership. It's about understanding your strengths and weaknesses, seeking honest feedback, and constantly working to improve. Think of it like this:

• Self-Evaluation: Use the leadership traits as a benchmark. Where do you shine? Where do you need to grow?

• Continuous Improvement: Don't just identify weaknesses – actively work on them. At the same time, maximize your strengths.

• Learn from Others: Seek feedback from trusted sources. Study the successes and failures of other leaders. They're a treasure trove of wisdom.

• Communication is Key: Master the art of writing and speaking. Your ability to communicate effectively is a force multiplier.

Principle 2: Be Technically and Tactically Proficient

You can't lead effectively if you don't know your stuff. This principle is all about mastering your craft:

• Competence: Demonstrate your ability to get the job done. Be the expert in your field.

• Never Stop Learning: Attend service schools, pursue independent study, take courses. Knowledge is power.

• Find Mentors: Seek out leaders you admire. Observe how they operate. Learn from their experience.

• Broaden Your Horizons: Don't limit yourself to your own area of expertise. Associate with people from other fields.

Principle 3: Know Your Marines and Look Out for Their Welfare

This principle is about caring for your team. It's about putting their needs above your own:

• Servant Leadership: Always put your people first. Address their concerns, remove obstacles, and create a positive environment.

• Be Visible and Approachable: Make sure your team knows you and feels comfortable coming to you with anything.

• Support Their Well-being: Help them access the resources they need. Pay attention to their mental state.

• Encourage Growth: Invest in your team's individual development. Help them reach their full potential.

Next Time:

In the next episode, we'll cover the remaining leadership principles, including the importance of setting the example, taking initiative, and making sound decisions.

Remember: Leadership is a journey, not a destination. It's about constantly learning, growing, and adapting. These Marine Corps principles offer a powerful framework for self-aware leaders who want to make a real impact.

Call to Action:

I'd love to hear your thoughts on these first three principles. Which one resonated with you the most? Share your insights in the comments below or connect with me on Instagram here. Until next time, keep leading with purpose!

Ever felt like you're stuck, like success is just out of reach? Robert Kiyosaki's "Rich Dad Poor Dad" hit me hard with this truth: our mindset is everything. Kiyosaki contrasts his "rich dad" (his mentor) and his "poor dad" (his own father), showing how different views on money and success can make or break us.

I've struggled with this myself. Growing up, most of the people around me had that "poor dad" mindset. They were good people, hard workers, but they saw money as something you just earned at a job, not something you could grow.

I started noticing how their fear of risk and their focus on just getting by was rubbing off on me. It was like a subtle pull, holding me back from even dreaming bigger.

But reading "Rich Dad Poor Dad" was a wake-up call. It made me realize I needed to shake things up if I wanted a different life.

Learning to Think Like a "Rich Dad"

I started seeking out people who were already successful, people who thought like Kiyosaki's "rich dad." I read books on finance, took courses, and most importantly, surrounded myself with mentors who could guide me.

It wasn't easy. Unlearning old habits and beliefs is tough. I had to constantly challenge myself to step outside my comfort zone, to take calculated risks, and to see money as an opportunity, not just a paycheck.

But little by little, my mindset started shifting. I began to see possibilities I hadn't seen before. I started making bolder decisions, investing in myself and my ideas.

The Challenge of Breaking Away

The hardest part, though, was distancing myself from the "poor dad" influences in my life. I didn't want to lose my friends and family, but I knew I couldn't let their limiting beliefs hold me back.

I had to find a balance. I still care about them, but I've also made a conscious effort to spend more time with people who are on the same path as me.

My Journey Continues

I'm not where I want to be yet, but I'm miles ahead of where I would be if I had stayed stuck in that old mindset. I'm building businesses, investing in assets, and creating a life I'm truly excited about.

If you're feeling trapped by a "poor dad" mentality, know this: you can change. It's not easy, but it's absolutely possible. Seek out mentors, educate yourself, challenge your limiting beliefs, and most importantly, take action.

Your future self will thank you.

Jason

To My Fellow Self-Aware Leaders,

Procrastination is often painted as the villain of productivity, a time thief we must tirelessly battle. But what if I told you that procrastination can be a valuable ally, a signal worth heeding?

As self-aware leaders, we know that our habits and behaviors often hold deeper meanings. By turning our attention inward, we can uncover hidden insights within our procrastination patterns.

Understanding Procrastination Through Self-Awareness

Self-awareness is our superpower. It's the ability to recognize our own character, feelings, motives, and desires. When applied to procrastination, it invites us to examine the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors surrounding tasks we tend to put off.

Let's delve deeper. Ask yourself:

• Emotional state: Am I feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or afraid of failure?

• Physical state: Am I tired, hungry, or uncomfortable?

• Environment: Is my workspace conducive to focus? Am I surrounded by distractions?

• Task perception: Do I find this task boring, challenging, or unclear?

• Personal values: Does this task align with my core values and long-term goals?

By regularly checking in with ourselves, we can paint a clearer picture of our unique procrastination triggers.

Decoding the Procrastination Signal

Once we've cultivated self-awareness, we can start interpreting our procrastination as a signal. It may be telling us something important:

• Need for rest: Are we overworked and in need of a break?

• Misaligned priorities: Is this task truly aligned with our goals and values?

• Lack of clarity: Do we need more information or guidance to proceed?

• Fear of failure: Are we using procrastination as a shield against potential disappointment?

• Intuition about timing: Is our subconscious telling us that now isn't the right time?

By listening to these signals, we can make more informed decisions about when to push forward and when to step back.

When Procrastination Might Be Beneficial

While chronic procrastination is detrimental, there are times when delaying can be advantageous:

• Incubation for creativity: Allowing our subconscious to work on a problem can lead to innovative solutions.

• Gathering more information: Waiting can provide time to collect valuable data.

• Emotional regulation: Taking time to process emotions can lead to more rational responses.

• Energy management: Procrastinating on less critical tasks can help preserve energy.

• Avoiding premature action: Delaying can prevent hasty decisions we might later regret.

Harnessing Self-Awareness to Manage Procrastination

So, how can we harness our self-awareness to manage procrastination effectively?

• Keep a procrastination journal: Document your procrastination patterns and the insights you gain.

• Practice mindfulness: Enhance your ability to notice thoughts and emotions in the moment.

• Set reflection time: Schedule regular check-ins with yourself to review your tasks and goals.

• Experiment with action: Try both pushing through and delaying tasks, and observe the outcomes.

• Seek feedback: Ask trusted colleagues or friends for their perspectives.

Conclusion

Procrastination isn't always the enemy. As self-aware leaders, we can learn to interpret our procrastination as a potentially valuable signal. Let's approach it with curiosity, not judgment. By tuning into our inner signals and respecting what they tell us, we can transform procrastination from a foe into an unexpected ally on our journey toward productivity and well-being.

To your continued self-awareness and growth,

Jason

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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 Awareness

By embracing the idea that systems are the key to results, we empower ourselves to become architects of our own success. This shift in perspective transforms us from victims of circumstance to proactive leaders capable of designing better outcomes. Whether we’re in the boardroom or navigating personal challenges, recognizing that “every system is perfectly designed to get the results it gets” equips us with the insight to create meaningful change. Remember, every system is perfectly designed… to change.

This journey of awareness and improvement is ongoing, and it starts with a single step—challenging the system.