Personal Mastery

Ten tips for 21st century leaders:

1. Learn how to read more intelligently
Learn speed reading, strategic and range reading techniques to enable you to handle incoming emails, reports, articles and letters faster and more effectively.

2. Learn how to focus your attention on what is important
Where you focus your attention will determine what you get done in your working day. Learn how to be effective – not just time management techniques. Focus on your goals and move boldly towards them.

3. Master your emotions and state of mind
Learn how to control your emotions and instantly switch into the right mindset for the situation you are in. Confidence, Energetic, Control, Calmness – they are all at your fingertips.

4. Ask solid questions
What do I want to achieve this week? What is the purpose of this meeting? What actions are required? What impact will this have? What are the risks? Is there a less costly way to achieve the same outcome?

5. Get to know your team well
Find out what motivates them and align their needs with those of the organisation. Understand their strengths and weaknesses and deploy them accordingly.

6. Learn how to make great decisions
Learn structured, analytical and creative problem solving techniques. Trust yourself to make the right decision and do it in a timely fashion.

7. Learn to be an excellent communicator
Understand that the effectiveness of your communication will dictate the response and reaction you receive.

8. Learn to make great presentations
Learn how to design and learn how to deliver. High impact visibility opens doors.

9. Understand the power of momentum
Huge, daunting tasks are just one step away from getting a whole lot easier.

10. Be proactive
The more proactive you are, the less reactive you need to be.


Simon Cooper heads up the Experiential Learning Centre and is author of the best selling leadership development book, Brilliant Leader.