Blog details

Blind spots are areas of ourselves—our behaviors, beliefs, or habits—that we fail to recognize but that impact our lives. Think of a colleague who believes they’re a great listener but constantly interrupts. Or a leader who micromanages but sees themselves as empowering.

The problem? Blind spots hold us back. They limit self-awareness, affect decision-making, and strain relationships. But once identified, they become powerful opportunities for growth.

How to Identify Your Blind Spots

1. Ask for Honest Feedback
   
   • Seek input from friends, colleagues, or mentors. Ask, “What’s something I do that might hold me back?”
     
   • 360-degree feedback assessments can provide structured insights.
     
     
2. Notice Emotional Reactions
   
   • Pay attention to situations that trigger discomfort or defensiveness. These moments often point to an unseen issue.
     
   • Example: If constructive criticism upsets you, you may have a blind spot around receiving feedback.
     
     
3. Work with a Coach
   
   • Coaches provide an unbiased perspective and ask questions that uncover hidden behaviors.
     
   • A coach might challenge your assumptions, helping you see what’s been invisible.
     
     
4. Use Reflection and Self-Assessment
   
   • Journaling and personality assessments (like the Johari Window) can highlight gaps between how you see yourself and how others see you.

How to Overcome Blind Spots

1. Embrace Feedback, Even When It’s Hard
   
   • Instead of reacting defensively, ask: “What can I learn from this?”
     
   • Example: If multiple people say you struggle with delegation, there’s likely truth to it.
     
     
2. Take Small, Consistent Action
   
   • Identify one blind spot and work on it. If you tend to dominate conversations, make a habit of listening more and asking questions.
     
     
3. Practice Mindfulness
   
   • Becoming more present helps you notice patterns in your behavior.
     
   • Try this: Before responding in a tough situation, pause and ask yourself, “Am I acting on habit, or is there another way to approach this?”
     
     
4. Seek Ongoing Support
   
   • Find mentors, coaches, or accountability partners who will call out your blind spots and help you grow.

Why This Matters

Overcoming blind spots improves relationships, decision-making, and leadership. It fosters self-awareness, adaptability, and long-term success.

Your Next Step

Take action today. Ask someone you trust:
“What’s one thing I don’t see about myself that might be holding me back?”

Be open. Reflect. Grow. The better you see yourself, the greater your potential.