Overcoming Hidden Challenges in Leadership
As I was finishing up yesterday’s post, “Looking In The Mirror,” I noticed the mirror photo (featured photo) I used from my own vehicle had a spot mirror. The small mirror used to see vehicles or objects that are up close and out of view of the driver in the normal mirror. Sometimes these are called “blind spot mirrors.” Just like blind spot mirrors help drivers become aware of areas they might not see directly, as leaders, we often have blind spots regarding our own behaviors, decision-making processes, and the impact we have on others. These blind spots can prevent us from seeing potential issues within our teams or from recognizing our strengths and weaknesses.
A spot mirror can symbolize self-reflection and self-awareness in this metaphor. Just like a spot mirror gives you a closer, more detailed view of a specific area, it represents the idea of looking deeper into ourselves and understanding our unique characteristics, experiences, and emotions. It encourages an open dialogue about leadership styles, openness to critique, and the importance of self-awareness. Additionally, just as drivers regularly check their blind spots to avert accidents, leaders can cultivate practices—like regular reflection, mentorship, and team feedback—that help illuminate these hidden areas and foster growth.
In the context from yesterday’s post of seeing ourselves in others, a spot mirror highlights how we can focus on particular traits or moments that resonate with us. It encourages us to examine our reflections and how they relate to the world around us. By using this metaphor, we can better appreciate our individuality while recognizing the common threads that connect us to others.
Byron's Babbles 
[…] have written and posted about ‘blind spots’ before in Overcoming Hidden Challenges in Leadership, Why You Should Read “What Are Your Blind Spots?”, and The Blind Spots Identified. Then […]
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