When we lack self-awareness we are likely to overestimate our strengths and ignore our weaknesses.

In leaders this produces overconfidence, ineffective decision-making and poor judgement — behaviors that can damage team relationships and have disastrous effects on their organizations.

If we had leaders who were intimately aware of their talents and limitations, we would start to see more inclusive and effective teams. This is because self-aware leaders surround themselves with teammates that have complementary talents, while having  the humility to defer to those with more skill and experience.

The good news is that through feedback and reflection we can all become more self-aware.