The Leadership Lounge

Author

Khalid Asad, CEO, PCC

Leadership is often envisioned as a journey of continuous growth and adaptation. Yet, when leaders choose to navigate this path without the compass of feedback, they risk not only their effectiveness but their developmental trajectory as well. Here are five ways ignoring feedback can stymie a leader's personal growth and diminish their overall effectiveness.

Stunts Self-Awareness

A leader's self-awareness is sharpened through the lens of external feedback. Without it, leaders may remain blind to their weaknesses and unaware of their strengths, leading to misjudgments in both personal and professional capacities. Feedback serves as a critical mirror reflecting not just what one wants to see, but what needs to be seen for genuine self-improvement.

Limits Adaptability

In a rapidly changing world, adaptability is a cornerstone of effective leadership. Feedback provides insights into shifting dynamics and expectations, allowing leaders to adjust their...

Author

Konovia D. Mikeal, COO, MBA, M.Ed

Embracing Natural Hair: Empowering Black Women's Leadership Presence

In a world where professional norms often dictate conformity, the movement towards embracing natural hair among Black women stands as a beacon of self-empowerment and leadership. This movement is not just about hair; it’s a profound statement on identity, resilience, and the redefinition of leadership.

The Power of Authenticity

At the core of this movement is authenticity. For many Black women, wearing our hair naturally is an expression of true self, which in turn enhances our presence and influence in leadership roles. Authenticity breeds confidence, and confidence commands respect—qualities essential for effective leadership. Leaders like Ayanna Pressley, who openly discusses her alopecia and the decision to go bald, underscore the power of vulnerability and self-acceptance in leadership.

Challenging the Norm

The traditional corporate environment...