Self awareness
Last but not the least,Self awareness is a major aspect of an effective leader.It consists of meta cognition,career management and life long learning.As shown in this diagram for adult learners,Meta-learning,self-management,life-long learning(Merriam & Caffarella,1999).
Self actualization is the highest stage of self awareness. Abraham Maslow's 1943 paper highlighting hierarchy of needs shows this beautifully.As shown in the figure,self actualization leads to unlocking of the inner potential.It gives purpose and meaning to life.
Further Reading
This excellent article talks about leadership and self awareness(Harvard Business Review,2012).Write down your comments below after reading the article as a part of reflection.
http://blogs.hbr.org/tjan/2012/07/how-leaders-become-self-aware.html
References
1.Harvard Business Review (2012). How Leaders Become Self-Aware. [online] Retrieved from: http://blogs.hbr.org/tjan/2012/07/how-leaders-become-self-aware.html [Accessed: 30 May 2013].
2.Merriam, S.B. & Caffarella, R.S. (1999). Learning in Adulthood: A Comprehensive Guide. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass Publishers.
3. Maslow, A.H. (1943). A theory of human motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370–96. Retrieved from http://psychclassics.yorku.ca/Maslow/motivation.htm