In this episode, Janessa Storlie introduces a new series on the Five Pillars of Everyday Leadership. She explains that leadership isn't just about a title; it's a skill that anyone can build through practice and intention. These five pillars—social awareness, self-awareness, acceptance, responsibility, and communication—serve as a practical roadmap for anyone looking to become a more impactful leader in their community. This episode focuses on the first two foundational pillars: self-awareness and social awareness.

Janessa explains that self-awareness is the conscious knowledge of one's own character, feelings, motives, and desires. It's about leading yourself first by understanding your values, strengths, weaknesses, and triggers. She provides several practical tools to build this skill, including journaling, talk therapy, somatic practices, meditation, and reading. By developing self-awareness, you gain the clarity and confidence to advocate for yourself and become the person you aspire to be.

She then dives into social awareness, which is defined as the ability to understand, empathize with, and interpret the emotions, needs, and perspectives of others. This pillar is about building trust and creating a safe space for others by listening without judgment. Janessa shares tactical skills for improving social awareness, such as being observant of body language, practicing active listening, and asking open-ended questions that encourage deeper conversation. She emphasizes that the more you understand others' motives and dreams, the easier it is to show up with kindness and empathy as an authentic leader.

These twin pillars of self-awareness and social awareness are the foundation of emotional intelligence and are crucial for building meaningful connections with both yourself and the world around you.

Key Takeaways from this episode:

• Leadership is a skill, not a title. It can be developed through intentional habits and practices.
• Self-awareness is leading yourself first. It's about gaining a deep understanding of your own character, values, and emotions.
• Social awareness is understanding others. It is the ability to empathize with and interpret the emotions, needs, and perspectives of those around you.
• The two pillars are interconnected. The more you understand yourself, the easier it becomes to understand others and become an everyday leader.
• Practical tools can help. Journaling, meditation, reading, active listening, and asking open-ended questions are all ways to build self and social awareness.

Connect with Janessa!

What's one thing you're doing to build your self or social awareness? Share with me!

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