Why We’re Not As Self-Aware As We Think We Are

Most leaders believe they’re self-aware.

Research suggests otherwise.

Studies indicate that while the majority of us think we understand how we show up, only a small percentage are accurately perceived that way by others. And under pressure — in uncertainty — those blind spots don’t stay hidden.

• They shape our decisions.
• Our relationships.
• Our leadership.

In this episode of Leading People, Gerry Murray speaks with researcher and author Dr Julia Carden about why self-awareness is far rarer than we assume — and why it matters most in uncertain environments.

We explore:

• Why other people’s perceptions of us don’t update as quickly as we think
• What makes feedback useful rather than threatening
• The role of identity and ego in leadership blind spots
• Why self-acceptance is a quiet but powerful leadership strength
• And how self-awareness builds adaptive capacity in unstable times

If you’ve ever wondered why capable, intelligent leaders can still get in their own way — this conversation will give you language, research, and practical insight to reflect on your own leadership.

Curious?

Listen in — and notice what you'll discover about yourself

Check out the Leading People programmes

Connect with Julia on LinkedIn

Visit Julia's Website

Buy the book

Follow

Leading People on LinkedIn

Leading People on FaceBook

Connect with Gerry

Website

LinkedIn

Wide Circle

Chapters

• 0:00 Welcome And Why Uncertainty Exposes Us
• 1:29 Meet Dr Julia Carden And Her Journey
• 4:56 Who The Book Is For And Why Now
• 8:36 The Myth Of Being “Very Self-Aware”
• 12:21 Why Self-Awareness Drives Leadership Under Pressure
• 16:22 Interpersonal First: How Others Experience You
• 21:16 Feedback That Helps Rather Than Hurts
• 26:12 Intrapersonal Layers: Beliefs, Values, And Needs
• 31:30 Bodies, States, And Reading Your Signals
• 36:10 Self-Connection And Leading Through Uncertainty
• 40:45 A Simple Weekly Reflection Practice
• 42:36 How To Reach Julia And A Listener Giveaway
• 44:03 Teaser: Why Coaching Beats Advice