Understand yourself as a leader

By now, you will have acknowledged the role of self-awareness and emotional intelligence as two of the most important leadership qualities. The ability to read verbal and non-verbal signs, control emotions and empathise with others are essential to build trust and encourage healthy communication with your team. 

Tool Tip

One of the most effective tools for developing self-awareness and building up trust and communication with others is the Johari Window. 


What is the Johari Window?

This is a helpful psychological tool for encouraging more openness with ourselves and others. Developed in the 1950s by American psychologists Jospeh Luft and Harry Ingham, the model has become widely used to help people understand the relationships that they have and for improving trust and communication. Building good working relationships is a common leadership goal, but it can be difficult to know how and where to start. That is where the Johari Window comes into play. 


The Johari Window

step 1

Open self

This segment relates to all that is known about you. It is what is known not only by yourself, but also what is known about you by the group. The information that is open can represent behaviour, skills, knowledge, experiences, or anything that is disclosed to the public.

step 2

Blind self

This segment represents what is known about you by the group, but not by yourself. This information could be positive or negative and could represent strengths or areas to improve. For example, a 360-degree feedback could be the basis of your development.


step 3

Hidden self

This area constitutes what you know about yourself, but this type of information is not revealed to your group. This could represent some of your feelings, fears, opinions or dreams which could be slowly exposed once you trust those around you.

step 4

Unknown self

This area deals with all the information, feelings or experiences that you are not aware you possess. These are neither known to yourself or known to others. This section might include subconscious information or anything that is yet undiscovered.


Another useful tool that develops your self-awareness as a leader is The Wheel of LifeClick the link below and download the guide to help you deepen your understanding of yourself as a leader.


Discover more from 3WH

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

{"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}
>