Leadership Shadow Work
Briefly

The article discusses the concept of shadow work, emphasizing that recurring leadership challenges often arise from unconscious blind spots that leaders possess. Carl Jung's idea of the unconscious directing one’s life illustrates the connection between these blind spots and leadership effectiveness. Shadow work requires confronting hidden fears and biases to unlock potential and achieve intentional leadership. High achievers may resist this work, falsely believing that further improvement is unnecessary. However, emotional intelligence research underscores the dangers of ignoring these shadows, leading to significant negative impacts like burnout and ineffective decision-making.
Have you ever repeated a frustrating mistake, despite promising yourself, "Never again"? Perhaps certain challenges keep resurfacing no matter how many leadership books you read or seminars you attend.
Shadow work involves unpacking the metaphorical backpack. Facing what's inside liberates immense potential and clarity, transforming your leadership from reactive to deeply intentional.
Research on emotional intelligence (2013) shows that leaders who fail to address emotional blind spots risk burnout, poor decision-making, and weakened team relationships.
Ignoring your shadow limits your leadership. Confronting it opens the door to true mastery.
Read at Psychology Today
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