Self-Reflection for leaders: “Am I looking forward?”

What it’s all about

As a leader, it’s crucial to think and act with a forward-looking perspective. This structured self-reflection helps you tp evaluate how much you focus on the future of your team, department, or company and identify areas that may require more attention.

Instructions

Answer the following statements in full according to the following criteria and assign the corresponding point value that most accurately describes your self-assessment:

0: Does not apply at all
1: Rather not true
2: Partly / partially
3: Mostly true
4: Completely true

Make a note of your score and add it up at the end of the test. Compare your total score with the evaluation scheme to determine your categorisation.

Self-Refelction Questions

I…

regularly set aside time to think about future trends and developments in my industry.
have a clear vision for my team/department/company for the next 5 years.
clearly and regularly communicate long-term goals to my team.
encourage my team to propose innovative solutions and new ideas.
invest in training and development to prepare my team for future challenges.
regularly review and update our work processes to promote efficiency and innovation.
am open to changes and adapt our strategies when circumstances require it.
view mistakes and setbacks as learning opportunities.
take time to assess the long-term impacts of my decisions.
actively follow industry news and developments to stay informed.
leverage technology to enhance my team’s productivity and effectiveness.
work on creating a culture of continuous improvement.
set goals that not only achieve current success but also promote future achievements.
foster an atmosphere where team members think beyond the present.
regularly schedule team meetings to discuss progress and future projects.
consider my team’s well-being as an investment in the future.
actively look for ways to diversify our products/services.
assess risks not only for their potential short-term but also long-term impacts.
promote partnerships and networks that support long-term growth.
believe it’s important for my team to understand how their work contributes to the long-term vision.
involve my team in developing strategies and plans.
consider societal and environmental trends in planning.
use feedback from customers and employees to shape future strategies.
keep an eye out for talents that could strengthen our team in the future.
take time for my personal development and future readiness.
regularly evaluate whether our goals and strategies are still relevant.
ensure a balance between short-term results and long-term objectives.
acknowledge that sustainable growth often requires patience.
use data and analytics to predict and respond to future trends.
ensure that our corporate culture promotes flexibility and adaptability.

Scoring Scheme

0-24 Points: Beginning Stage
You may find it challenging to think beyond the current state. It’s important to invest more time in planning and preparing for the future.
25-48 Points: Developing
You are on your way, but there are still areas where you can strengthen your forward-looking thinking and actions.
49-72 Points: Advanced
You have a good grasp of the importance of thinking ahead. Try to refine and deepen your skills further.
73-96 Points: Professional
You are well-prepared to lead your team or company into the future. You think ahead and plan strategically.
97-120 Points: Visionary
You are a role model for forward-looking leadership. You inspire others with your vision and commitment to long-term success.

Conclusion

This self-assessment is a tool to reflect on how forward-looking you are as a leader. Regardless of your score, it’s important to continually work on your ability to look ahead and prepare your team or company for a successful future.