One of the first tools I use to be self-aware is the Myers-Briggs Personality Test.  I have taken this test multiple times, and it is interesting to see how I’ve changed over time. I am currently an ENFJ-A, which makes me what they call a Protagonist. As an ENFJ-A, I am an inspiring optimist, readily taking action to do what I feel is right. I love helping others and have the creative energy to achieve my goals. What I love about this test is that it gives you an inside scope to your personality traits, career path, personal growth, and relationships through strengths and weaknesses. This tool has helped me self-reflect on how I can use these strengths and better my weaknesses when performing as a leader. I dabbled in Enneagrams at one time, but it is not my preferred method of self-awareness and reflection.

Another tool I use to be self-aware is Communication Styles. This is a tool we were introduced to in Leadership and Strategic Thinking, and I think it’s a highly valuable way of understanding not only yourself, but others. When looking at this chart, I lean more towards deliberate and people-driven, making myself a “P” communication style. I find that this style reflects me well. It was interesting to look specifically at the “when influencing’ and the “when managing” section in this communication style. These specific tools help me reflect on actions that I take daily as a leader in my current job and how I communicate both with co-workers and students. This tool also allows me to better understand why I naturally make some of the decisions I do.

I do journal at times that I consider important. Journaling during moments like my internships, student teaching, and during this program has helped me reflect upon where I am currently and what I hope to succeed in the future.

SWOT Analysis has been a great tool for self-awareness as well. I was introduced to SWOT when I was in my undergraduate program, but I have used it in plenty of circumstances since, especially in this program. I like this method of reflection because it allows me to look at strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats through a clear lens. This tool has even helped me in making big decisions- like the recent decision to move from the middle school classroom and look for opportunities at the high school level. If it wasn’t for this tool, I don’t think I would be where I am today. If I need something quick and similar to SWOT Analysis, sometimes I’ll just use a Pros and Cons list.