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Career Anchors And Self Leadership

Written by Burkhard Bensmann on .

Navigating with Your Inner Compass

Have you ever felt torn between what you should do and what you really want to do in your career?
Do you sometimes wonder whether your current role reflects who you truly are?
And what if you had an inner compass that could guide you more clearly—especially in times of change?

Today’s episode is about Career Anchors—a powerful concept that can help you understand what drives you at work.

We’ll connect this concept with the core idea of Self-Leadership—how you lead yourself toward meaningful, satisfying work and a life that feels aligned.

You’ll learn:

• What Career Anchors are
• How they influence your motivation and decisions
• How they support your self-leadership
• And finally, you’ll be guided through a short reflection exercise

Let’s get started.

Part 1 – What Is Self-Leadership? 

First, a quick reminder of what I mean by Self-Leadership. I define Self-Leadership as “attitudes and methods for the goal-oriented leadership of oneself.” It is based on three pillars:

• Self-awareness
• Self-responsibility
• Self-direction

This approach helps you create clarity about what matters most, stay on course in a turbulent world, and act in alignment with your deeper goals. But how do you know what matters most? That’s where Career Anchors come in.

Part 2 – Understanding Career Anchors

The concept of Career Anchors were first introduced by Edgar Schein and has been recently reimagined in 2023 by Schein, Van Maanen, and Peter Schein. Career Anchors describe the core values, motivations, and needs that guide your career decisions—whether you’re aware of them or not. Think of them as inner reference points. When you honor them, you feel energized. When you ignore them, you feel lost or frustrated. Here are the eight Career Anchors:

 1. Technical/Functional (TF)

This anchor reflects a deep need to become truly excellent in a specific field. People with this anchor are driven by expertise and problem-solving. They enjoy mastering a domain and being recognized for their know-how. Picture someone who doesn’t need a leadership title—but thrives when solving complex technical challenges or perfecting systems. They often feel most fulfilled when they are “in the zone” of their specialization.

Self-Leadership implications:

Build your role around deep work. Set goals that challenge your skillset. Look for environments where craftsmanship is valued—and avoid being pulled into roles that take you too far from what you do best.

Ask yourself: “Where do I want to go deeper instead of wider?”

⸻

2. Autonomy/Independence (AU)

People with this anchor value freedom over structure. They want to shape their own work—when, where, and how it happens. This might show up as a desire to work remotely, to reject micromanagement, or to create a business that lets you define your own pace. What matters most is self-direction.

Self-Leadership implications:

Design your work so that it gives you room to decide. Structure your day, your processes, and even your collaborations in a way that respects your independence. Watch for roles where rigid systems undermine your drive.

Ask yourself: “Where do I feel boxed in—and where do I feel free?”

⸻

3. Challenge & Risk (C&R)

This anchor is about pushing boundaries. If this is your anchor, you seek complex problems, ambitious goals, and high-stakes situations. You’re energized by uncertainty—by the thrill of figuring things out when others step back. You may not need constant adrenaline, but you do need stimulation and growth.

Self-Leadership implications:

Keep your stretch goals visible. Volunteer for projects that scare you—in a good way. But also learn to manage recovery, because intensity needs balance.

Ask yourself: “What challenges am I ready for—but maybe avoiding?”

⸻

 4. Entrepreneurial Creativity (EC)

This anchor is about building something new. You’re excited by innovation, by launching projects, or by creating solutions where none existed before. People with this anchor don’t wait for permission—they experiment, prototype, and learn through action. Impact matters, but so does independence and originality.

Self-Leadership implications:

You need time and space to create. Build routines that support innovation—whiteboard sessions, idea journals, or side projects. Look for collaborators who energize you rather than constrain you.

Ask yourself: “What have I created lately that I’m proud of?”

⸻

5. General Management (GM)

You are drawn to leading people and steering complex systems. You enjoy aligning teams, making strategic decisions, and delivering results through others. It’s not just about control—it’s about seeing the big picture and coordinating moving parts. You thrive on responsibility and influence.

Self-Leadership implications:

Sharpen your systems thinking. Strengthen your communication skills. And regularly check that your leadership remains values-driven—not just performance-driven.

Ask yourself: “Am I leading with clarity—or just managing complexity?”

⸻

6. Service / Dedication to a Cause (SV)

This anchor is rooted in meaning and contribution. You want to make a positive difference—to help people, solve societal issues, or support a cause bigger than yourself. Success is measured not just in numbers, but in impact. You feel fulfilled when your work reflects your deeper beliefs.

Self-Leadership implications:

Align your goals with your values. Don’t ignore purpose when making decisions about your role or organization. And take time to reconnect with your why—especially in difficult moments.

Ask yourself: “What kind of impact do I want to have this year?”

⸻

7. Stability & Security (S&S)

This anchor is about predictability, consistency, and reliability. You want to work in an environment where expectations are clear, change is manageable, and long-term planning is possible. You may not resist all change—but you value continuity and low risk. This anchor often shows up in people who’ve experienced instability in the past.

Self-Leadership implications:

Don’t apologize for seeking structure. Instead, choose roles that let you build routines and minimize volatility. But also stay open to evolution—security doesn’t have to mean stagnation.

Ask yourself: “What routines make me feel grounded—and which ones trap me?”

⸻

8. Life-Work Integration (LW)

This anchor reflects a deep desire to balance life’s different areas—not by separating them, but by integrating them meaningfully. You want work that allows space for family, well-being, travel, hobbies, or personal growth. You don’t want to sacrifice your life for your job—or vice versa.

Self-Leadership implications:

Define your non-negotiables clearly. Design your time with care. Say yes to flexibility—and no to false urgency. Make alignment your leadership strategy.

Ask yourself: “Am I living the way I want—or just working the way I’m told?”

Keep in mind: Most people have one or two dominant anchors that shape their career satisfaction and decisions.

Part 3 – How Career Anchors Connect with Self-Leadership 

When you combine the concept of Career Anchors with Self-Leadership, at least three powerful things happen:

1. You gain clarity

You’re better able to filter opportunities. Example: If your anchor is Autonomy, you’ll recognize that micromanagement will be toxic—no matter the salary.

2. You increase your motivation

When your work aligns with your anchor, you naturally feel more energized and committed. Example: Someone driven by Service will perform best in roles with a sense of purpose—even if they come with lower pay.

3. You navigate change with confidence

Career Anchors are not fixed forever. Maybe ten years ago, you were driven by Challenge. Today, it might be Stability. Self-Leadership helps you recognize and accept this evolution—and to adjust your goals accordingly.

Handle with care

You know me by now—I always encourage you to treat any concept, model, or framework with care. The Career Anchors are just that: a concept. A useful lens, not a label.
Test it. Use it. But don’t confuse insight with identity.
You’re not a finished product—you’re becoming. As psychologist Daniel Gilbert put it:
“We’re works in progress who think we’re finished.”

Let that sink in.

Personality is fluid. Motivation evolves. Don’t get trapped in a fixed self-concept.
Let your Career Anchor guide you—not box you in.

Reflection Exercise
Let’s pause for a moment of reflection. You may want to write down or just think through your answers.

  1. Am I doing work that reflects what I really care about?
  2. What is one bold step I can take now to move in the right direction?
  3. Where might I need to adjust my mindset or actions to reach the next level?

These questions can open the door to real change.

Download The Slides

If you found today’s episode helpful, you can download my slide deck from the Career Anchors webinar that I did for AHK Bogotá:

bensmann-consulting.com/career

Password: career2025

Music Into & Outro by Joakim Karud http://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud

Personal Development with AI 

Written by Burkhard Bensmann on .

Hands-On Tool Tips for Leaders

Are you curious how AI can help you as a leader develop and grow?
Have you wondered how artificial intelligence can enhance your everyday tasks—not just automate them?
What if AI could become a powerful tool in your personal growth journey as a leader?

In this episode, I’ll show you how you, as a leader, can use AI effectively for your personal development. I’ll walk you through five key ways AI can support your learning and growth journey—and offer practical tips to integrate these tools into your daily life.

I’ve already shared some of my personal experiences in various blog posts (https://bensmann-consulting.com/news/) – especially in the article “Coaching with AI?” (https://bensmann-consulting.com/coaching-with-stage-and-backstage/)  as well as in several podcast episodes.

For me, it has become part of my daily routine to work with tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Grok, and others. I often combine them—for instance, I let Perplexity critically evaluate and revise the results of a ChatGPT query.

A Missed Opportunity?

I am surprised that many top executives still haven’t integrated the use of AI tools into their leadership routines. Sometimes it’s a lack of awareness, sometimes it’s uncertainty about where to start, and often it’s simply being too busy. But what if using AI could actually give you more time, not take it away? Think of AI as your invisible co-pilot—always ready to help you learn faster, reflect deeper, and focus sharper. 
Let us look at five fields where you can benefit from using AI-tools.

1. Language Learning and Personal Skills Development

AI is transforming how we learn, especially when it comes to languages and communication.

  • Apps like Duolingo and Babbel personalize language lessons to your progress, making learning efficient and engaging.
  • For writing and communication: Tools like Grammarly and DeepL Write act as your digital writing coaches, helping you craft clearer and more confident messages—crucial for every leader.
  • For public speaking: Try Orai or Yoodli. These AI-powered apps analyze your presentation style, give real-time feedback on your delivery, and help you become a more compelling speaker.

Practical tip:
Set aside 10 minutes each morning to use one of these tools—practice a new language, improve an email draft, or rehearse a presentation. Over time, you’ll notice measurable improvements in your communication skills.

This links directly to the “Competencies & Self-Development” field in my self-leadership model. Your growth starts with targeted, measurable learning—and AI can guide that path like a tailored GPS.

2. Time Management and Task Prioritization

Is your calendar overflowing? Are you constantly reacting to urgent tasks?

  • Motion and Clockwise are AI-driven scheduling assistants. They automatically rearrange your calendar, protect focus time, and help you avoid burnout.
  • Notion AI can help you organize tasks, set reminders, and even summarize meeting notes.

Practical tip:
At the start of your week, let Motion or Clockwise optimize your schedule. Review the changes and reflect: did you gain more uninterrupted focus time? Did you feel less stressed?
Try using Notion AI to create a daily priority list—let it suggest what to tackle first based on your goals.

This supports the field of “Processes and Structures.” Efficient routines are essential for freeing up your leadership capacity.

3. Personalized Learning and Development

Forget one-size-fits-all training. AI can tailor learning to your unique needs.

  • Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy use AI to recommend courses that fit your career goals and learning style.
  • Refind curates articles and insights based on your interests, keeping you up-to-date on leadership, innovation, and industry trends.
  • For the latest in AI and leadership, subscribe to newsletters like The Rundown AI or Ben’s Bites.

Practical tip:
Set a learning goal for the month—perhaps mastering a new leadership skill or exploring a topic outside your comfort zone. Let the platforms recommend content, and block 20 minutes a week to engage with it.
Keep a digital journal (Notion) to track what you learn and how you apply it.

This corresponds with the field of „ Competencies and Self-Development“.

4. Decision-Making and Strategy Support

AI isn’t just about automation—it’s a powerful partner for strategic thinking.

  • Tableau and Microsoft Power BI help you visualize and analyze data, turning complex numbers into actionable insights.
  • Brandwatch gives you deep social and market analytics, revealing trends and risks you might otherwise miss.
  • ChatGPT Advanced Data Analysis lets you upload data and get instant summaries, charts, and recommendations—no coding required.

Practical tip:
Next time you face a big decision, use one of these tools to analyze the data behind your options. For example, upload last quarter’s sales data into Tableau or ChatGPT and ask: “What are the key trends? Where are the opportunities?”
This habit will make your decisions more data-driven and less reliant on gut feeling alone.

This is tightly linked to the field I call “Projects and Products.” When making major decisions or launching something new, the ability to simulate outcomes and gather quick insights can be a game-changer.

5. Emotional and Mental Well-Being

Leadership is demanding—your emotional fitness matters as much as your skills.

  • Wysa and other platforms provide AI-guided support for stress, anxiety, and mindfulness.
  • Stoic and Mindsera offer AI-powered journaling and reflection, helping you track your mood, set intentions, and build resilience.

Practical tip:
Start or end your day with a five-minute check-in using Wysa or Stoic. Reflect on your mood, challenges, and wins. Over time, you’ll spot patterns and triggers—and learn to manage stress before it builds up.

This reinforces the field I call “Body, Soul, and Mind.” Sustainable leadership requires inner clarity and emotional resilience—and AI can support that, one check-in at a time.

Handle With Care

A quick word of caution: As top managers begin using AI tools more regularly, it’s important to handle these tools with care. 

One risk is the gradual shift from helpful support to dependency. When complex questions are answered quickly and convincingly by AI, it can become tempting to stop engaging in deep, independent thinking. Over time, this may erode critical judgment and strategic foresight. 

Another challenge is quality: some AI responses are surprisingly shallow or generic. On the other hand, certain outputs can be overwhelmingly detailed, creating a new kind of information overload. Staying aware of these tendencies is essential for using AI as a tool—not as a crutch.

AI is not here to replace your leadership, but to amplify it.
The key is to use it consciously, aligning it with your personal values and goals.

Reflection:
Which of these tools matches your current development focus? Where could AI free up time or give you new insights?
Experiment, reflect, and share your experiences with your team.

Call-to-Action – Your First Step

I’m sure you’ve already got plenty of ideas for using and experimenting with AI tools in your leadership role.
If you want to dig deeper and bring more clarity to your strategic thinking, check out my new offer:

“Leading Yourself and Your Organization in the Age of Artificial Intelligence – Strategy Day in the Era of AI” — tailored for top-level executives.

You’ll find all the details and booking options at bensmann-consulting.com/leading-yourself-in-the-age-of-ai.”

links

AI Chatbots & Assistants

Language Learning

Writing & Grammar Tools

Speaking & Presentation Training

Productivity & Calendar

Notes & AI

Online Learning

Curated Knowledge & News

Data Analytics & Social Listening

Mental Health & Self-Reflection

Music Into & Outro by Joakim Karud http://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud

Perspectives on Leadership

Written by Burkhard Bensmann on .

A Conversation with Dr. Bernd Geropp

In this episode of Self-Leadership with Dr. Bensmann, I’m joined by German consultant and leadership expert Dr. Bernd Geropp. Together, we explore how leadership is evolving—especially in Germany—and what business owners and executives can do to stay grounded and effective in challenging times.
We talk about leadership culture, differences between company sizes, how to navigate strategic work, and how self-leadership practices help us stay sane—less social media, more purpose.

Topics include:

  • Lessons from India’s entrepreneurial spirit
  • Cooperative vs. authoritarian leadership
  • Systems vs. people-centered companies
  • Strategic work in Germany today
  • Tiny experiments and first-hour focus

Enjoy this thought-provoking and practical conversation!

Book recommendation

Anne-Laure Le Cunff: tiny experiments

Bernd’s channels

YouTube

leadership crash-course

Music Into & Outro by Joakim Karud http://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud

Coaching with Stage and Backstage

Written by Burkhard Bensmann on . Posted in News.

How I Use AI Without Losing the Human Connection

Yes, I use AI in my work as a coach and advisor. But no – my clients don’t interact with it.

Instead, I let the technology do what it does best: structure, analyze, remember, and suggest.
I use AI to prepare for sessions, to extract relevant content from my books and podcasts, and to create personalized follow-up messages.
It supports my workflows, sharpens my reflections, and sometimes even reveals blind spots I might otherwise overlook.

Think of it as a quiet, tireless backstage assistant – filtering, organizing, and keeping track so that I can be fully present when it matters most.

Because when I’m on stage – when the coaching session begins – it’s all about the human connection.
I listen. I pause. I respond with presence and intuition. There are no bots in the room. Just two people engaged in meaningful exchange.

I call this model “Coaching with Stage and Backstage.” Behind the curtain, AI is at work: silently analyzing, sorting, remembering. On stage, it disappears. The spotlight is on the person, their world, their aspirations.

This approach aligns deeply with how I understand self-leadership: not merely as a toolbox, but as a practice of navigating life with awareness and intention.

My framework – The Seven Fields of Self-Leadership – offers a lens to make sense of complexity in a leader’s life.
Let me show you how this hybrid model of human coaching and digital support connects to each of the seven fields:

1. Vision And Mission

Backstage, AI helps surface recurring themes from your history – from journals, emails, or past goals.
On stage, we explore what truly resonates with you: the spark behind your choices, the deeper “why.”
AI finds patterns. I help you find purpose.

2. Body, Soul, and Mind

AI can recommend a breathing app or suggest a new research article on stress.
But only a coach can notice the subtle shift in your breathing, the tension in your voice, and invite awareness to those signals.
Human presence can regulate nervous systems. No algorithm can replicate that.

3. Competencies and Self-Development

Sure, AI can map your skills and generate a development plan.
But real development unfolds in conversation: when we challenge a limiting belief or reframe a failure as growth.
Progress is not just tracked—it’s experienced.

4. Co-Workers, Partners & Networks

AI may chart your network or analyze your digital communication patterns.
But healing a broken alliance, building trust, or resolving conflict requires vulnerability and empathy.
AI maps the who; coaching explores the how and the why.

5. Processes and Structures

Digital tools can optimize your systems – calendars, task lists, workflows.
Still, deciding what deserves automation and what needs your personal touch remains a human judgment.
Efficiency is easy. Wisdom takes time.

6. Projects & Products

AI can help you brainstorm, simulate business models, or scan competitors.
But choosing what to create – and how to bring it to life with integrity – is an act of leadership, not just productivity.
Creativity requires more than inputs. It asks for alignment.

7. Added Value

This final field is about meaning, contribution, and impact.
AI might track metrics, but it cannot assess your legacy.
That’s why we meet: to go beyond “what you produce” and into “why it matters.”

So, where does that leave us?

Yes, I embrace technology – but always in service of something greater. AI is a powerful ally. But the true work of transformation happens in human presence.
In an age of automation and endless optimization, I choose to stay close to what makes change real:
Listening. Empathy. Presence.
Because in the end, leadership is not just about managing systems. It’s about leading yourself – with clarity, courage, and connection. And that, I believe, will always require one human being showing up for another.

Originally published on Substack, April 16, 2025.
This is an expanded and updated version, reflecting my current thinking and practice.

Personal Planning Day – Get More Clarity

Written by Burkhard Bensmann on .

Have you ever felt like you’re constantly reacting to life rather than controlling it? Do you ever wonder how you can break free from just “getting through the day” and regain focus? What if there was a way to pause, reflect, and steer your life in the direction you truly want?

A Hands-on Structure For Planning

In this episode, I want to focus on something practical: Personal Planning Days.  We live in a world driven by AI, robotics, and rapid technological change. Many of us feel like we’re just reacting to these changes, constantly playing catch-up. This feeling of being “managed” rather than in control is exhausting. But there is a way out of this trap—by taking a step back and dedicating time to personal reflection and planning. 

Visit my website (you’ll find the link in the show notes: https://bensmann-consulting.com) or go directly to the information page about the Planning Day:

Personal Planning Day with Dr. Bensmann

Today, I’m going to introduce a structured method that I’ve refined over the years: The Personal Planning Day. It’s a one-day strategy to reflect, regroup, and reset your goals, helping you to steer your life with purpose. So, if you’re ready to take back control and feel more empowered in your personal and professional life, keep listening.

Why do you need a Personal Planning Day? 

We all need time to stop reacting to the world around us and start proactively setting our course. A Personal Planning Day gives you:

1. A structured, time-efficient process – In one day, you’ll cover everything from reviewing the past year to setting actionable goals for the future.

2. Proven tools – These methods and tips are pragmatic, and you can integrate them into your leadership style immediately.

3. Long-lasting impact – When you make this day a regular event, you’ll have a framework for follow-up sessions each year, ensuring consistent progress.

4. Increased motivation – By the end of the day, you’ll have a clear plan, along with a renewed sense of confidence and optimism.

Ready to learn more? Let’s dive into the structure of the Personal Planning Day.

Preparation

Preparing for a Personal Planning Day requires thoughtful groundwork to ensure it’s productive and effective. You can’t go into this day unprepared if you want to see real results. Throughout the year, keep notes on important trends, ideas, or shifts in your thinking. These will provide the raw material for your planning day.

7 Stages of the Personal Planning Day

Here’s how to structure the day into 7 stages:

Stage 1: Reflection 

Start by reflecting on your past achievements—this is the foundation for setting new goals. Central to this is your “List of Achievements.” Take time to celebrate your wins, no matter how small, and acknowledge areas where progress was made. Some people may find it helpful to review “non-achievements,” but this is more about learning from challenges. The key here is to examine your long-term vision: Has it evolved, or should it? By starting with reflection, you create a clearer picture of what’s next.

Stage 2: Pause for Thought  

Taking a pause is not just about slowing down; it’s about taking a step back to evaluate your current path. Are you on a trajectory that still excites you? Or is there a voice inside nudging you toward change? This stage is critical because busy leaders often fail to question whether they are simply moving or truly progressing. Use personal notes, journals, or sketches to revisit ideas you may have overlooked. In this stage, don’t rush—insight requires stillness.

Stage 3: Trend Scouting  

Leaders often get so focused on their immediate tasks that they overlook broader industry shifts. This is your chance to look outward—to explore the trends and innovations that will shape your future. I recommend using tools like AI or simply consulting experts to forecast the next significant shifts in your field. What emerging trends could impact your personal or professional life? How can you prepare now?

Stage 4: The Fourfold Map  

This is where you break down your activities into four categories:  

1. Continue doing  

2. Do differently  

3. Start doing 

4. Stop doing

These align with the four quadrants: Continue, Modify, Innovate, Eliminate.he four quadrants—Continue, Modify, Innovate, Eliminate. 

This model encourages not just incremental change, but bold rethinking. Look at your daily routines and ask: What’s working well, and what’s holding me back? This stage is about tough decisions and meaningful shifts to position yourself for long-term success.

Stage 5: Well-being Check  

In this phase, it’s essential to identify what truly brings you happiness and satisfaction. What environments and activities fuel your creativity and joy? My six current conditions for well-being—creativity, using talents, personal time, contribution, ease, and positive relationships—may offer a guide, but what are your unique indicators of well-being? Defining these gives you a compass for the year ahead.

Stage 6: Updating your Goals  

It’s one thing to dream, but quite another to plan. This stage is where your visions transform into actionable steps. Use a one-pager to keep all your goals visible throughout the year. Breaking your long-term goals into actionable chunks can be empowering, and keeping a printed version nearby allows you to revisit it regularly, keeping your focus aligned. Don’t forget to choose a motto for the year—something to anchor your mindset and actions.

Stage 7: Defining Next Steps  

Finally, end with a concrete action plan. What are the first three steps you’ll take to make your plan a reality? This isn’t just about planning but about immediate execution. Set deadlines and commit to them, ensuring that this day of reflection turns into meaningful action in the days ahead.

Tips for a Successful Personal Planning Day

Now that you’ve completed the 7 stages, how do can you ensure that this process has a lasting impact? 

It’s essential to revisit your notes and goals at least once a month. Set regular appointments in your calendar to ensure your progress. This prevents your planning from fading into the background as the year gets busier.

1. Schedule it like a top client meeting: Make it a priority in your calendar.

2. Book a space where you can focus: This could be a quiet hotel room or an inspiring location where you won’t be disturbed.

3. Bring materials to visualize your goals: Large sheets of paper, markers, and sticky notes work wonders for mapping out your ideas.

4. Document your results: Use your preferred digital tools (I like using Notes or Freeform) to capture key insights.

5. Commit to 3 immediate actions: By setting clear next steps, you ensure that the ideas from your Planning Day turn into real progress.

Get Help

I believe that many of you, dear listeners, are now fully capable of conducting your own Personal Planning Day using the structure I’ve outlined. But, if you would like more personalized guidance, feel free to reach out. I’m happy to help you through the process.

Want to learn more about my Personal Planning Day offering? Visit my website (link in the show notes: https://bensmann-consulting.com) or go directly to the information page about the Planning Day:

Personal Planning Day with Dr. Bensmann

Music Into & Outro by Joakim Karud http://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud

The Key Skills Of An Entrepreneur

Written by Burkhard Bensmann on .

Take The Self-Assessment

Have you ever wondered what sets highly successful entrepreneurs apart?  
Do you know which key skills are necessary to thrive as a leader in today’s rapidly changing world?  
Are you ready to take a self-assessment and identify areas for growth in your entrepreneurial journey?

In today’s episode, we’ll dive into the critical characteristics that every entrepreneurial leader should possess—or develop. This is a subjective selection of 18 key skills, and I encourage you to use this episode as a self-test. There’s no hierarchical order here. Instead, I’ve arranged the skills alphabetically. You’ll notice that I’m covering a broad range of abilities, touching on each only briefly. My goal is to whet your appetite for self-reflection.  

So, grab a pen, or just keep a mental note as we go through these traits, and let’s dive in.Welcome to a new episode of Self-Leadership with Dr. Bensmann, where we explore how mastering self-leadership helps you thrive across all areas of your life.

Skills For Your Self-Assessment

A is for Action  

Taking action is crucial. Can you push through complexity and make things happen?** Entrepreneurs don’t wait for perfect conditions. They start, adjust, and improve along the way.

Another A is for Adaptability

How well can you adapt to changing circumstances constructively—like “survival of the fittest”? Successful entrepreneurs don’t avoid disruptions; they analyze challenges with emotional detachment, explore options, and creatively adjust to change. Can you stay flexible in a world that’s constantly shifting?

C is for Creativity 

The desire to discover, create something new, and see oneself as a designer of change is vital. Entrepreneurs balance solitude for personal planning with team interaction to spark creativity. When was the last time you let yourself fully explore new ideas?

D is for Delegation  

Delegation is about letting go and handing over tasks to others. It corresponds with the field of “Employees, Partners, and Networks” in my Seven Fields of Self-Leadership. Ask yourself: What can I do best, and what should I leave to others?

Another D stands for Decision-Making  

The ability to make decisions under difficult circumstances is key to entrepreneurial success. Leaders draw on pragmatic tools like scenario techniques and involve others in their decision-making. Are you comfortable making tough calls?

E is for Enthusiasm  

I differentiate between passion and enthusiasm. Passion can lead to burnout, while enthusiasm fuels energy and positivity. It’s important not to fully identify with your role. Can you maintain a healthy balance between work and personal identity?

F is for Focus  

In today’s world of constant distractions, maintaining a “laser-sharp focus” is harder than ever. How well can you focus amidst digital overload?

G is for Grit  

Resilience in the face of adversity is essential. Grit combines enthusiasm with perseverance. How do you push through setbacks and keep going when things get tough?

M is for Mindset  

It’s about shaping your mindset toward constructive thinking. How do you respond mentally when faced with challenges?

Another M stands for Mission  

Knowing your personal mission is key to well-being and effective leadership. What is your core mission, and how does it guide your daily decisions?

O is for Openness  

Balancing advocacy with inquiry is critical. Can you pause your own viewpoint long enough to understand and integrate other perspectives?

O is for Overview  

Like an artist stepping back from a canvas, you must see the whole picture in your business. Can you zoom out and maintain perspective while managing the details?

Another O stands for Recognizing and Seizing Opportunities  

Where others see problems, entrepreneurial minds see opportunities. Are you able to spot hidden opportunities, even in difficult situations?

P is for Patience  

Success doesn’t happen overnight. It requires persistence and the ability to wait for the right moment. Can you stay patient while working toward your long-term goals?

R is for Risk-Taking  

I’ve written about the importance of taking risks. Success can make us risk-averse, but growth often requires taking bold steps. Are you still willing to take risks, or are you playing it safe?

S is for Self-Efficacy  

Self-efficacy refers to your belief in your ability to succeed. A strong belief in your problem-solving abilities leads to greater success. How confident are you in your ability to achieve your goals?

Another S stands for Self-Motivation  

Entrepreneurs have the ability to constantly motivate themselves. They rely on rituals and methods to stay on track during tough times. Do you have personal routines that help you stay focused and motivated?

V is for Values  

Knowing your values is crucial for guiding your decisions. Are you fully aware of the values that drive your choices?

Before we wrap it all up, let me offer three more skills worth reflecting on:  

H is for Humility  

Being humble doesn’t mean underestimating yourself—it means understanding that you always have more to learn. Do you embrace learning from others, no matter your status?

I is for Intuition 

Entrepreneurs often rely on gut feelings to guide them when data is lacking. How well do you trust your instincts, especially when making quick decisions?

O is for Optimism  

Maintaining a positive outlook, even during adversity, is key for entrepreneurial resilience. Can you stay hopeful, even in uncertain times?

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You might have more aspects in mind—how about S for Self-Development or C for Communication?  

Don’t wait—take this self-assessment now, rating yourself on a scale from 0 to 10 for each of these 18 skills. Identify areas where you can grow and start making progress today.

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For more in-depth guidance, practical ideas, and plenty of background knowledge, check out my latest book Self-Leadership: The Key To Being Productive.

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If you found today’s episode valuable, share it with someone who could benefit from mastering their self-leadership. Better yet, challenge a friend or colleague to take this self-assessment with you. These conversations could spark powerful insights!

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Music Into & Outro by Joakim Karud http://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud

How Do You Start Your Day?

Written by Burkhard Bensmann on . Posted in News.

I don’t know how you start your day, but I have always wondered how I can create a powerful and focused beginning to my workday.

Instead of “getting up, checking my smartphone, being driven by incoming messages, and forgetting what I actually wanted to accomplish that day,” I have found a different approach.

In my search for the right morning routine, I studied (and tested) Brendon Burchard’s concept, which involves starting the day with numerous questions. However, I found it too time-consuming and complex.

So, I asked myself: What is sustainable for me? What are the essential elements I can use to ‘prime’ myself each morning for the day ahead?

Below is my personal approach. Feel free to test it for yourself and adapt it to your needs.

The Four Questions I Ask Myself Each Morning

1. FOCUS: What is most important today?

I review my calendar and notes to identify the one most relevant task for the day. What requires my full attention? Where must I avoid distractions?

2. PEOPLE: Who do I want to support today?

This could be a conversation, a short message, or an email. Shifting the focus to others helps us avoid becoming too self-absorbed.

3. GOALS: What will I do today to move toward my mid-term goals?

It helps to keep mid-term goals visible. Revisiting them frequently reinforces them in our minds. What specific action can I take today to get one step closer to a key goal?

4. MESSAGE: What do I appreciate most about my life today?

I take a moment to reflect inwardly. What am I truly grateful for? Not just on a surface level—what deserves my attention and mindfulness today?

Before asking myself these four questions, I always reflect on the previous day:

• What went well?

• What needs improvement?

• What ideas, insights, or wishes emerged?

However, I do not use this routine on weekends, vacations, or when I’m sick—this helps maintain a clear distinction between work and downtime.

Outlook

The new episode of my English podcast, “Self-Leadership with Dr. Bensmann,” will be released on February 2nd. The topic: The episode is called “Control Your Life with The Seven Fields of Self-Leadership.” I will show you how self-leadership helps you stay focused, make better decisions, and take charge of your future. You will learn my proven Seven Fields Model—key areas that will help you lead yourself first so you can lead others effectively. Are you ready to take control and create real impact?

Leadership Strategies to Strengthen Your Mental Immune System

Written by Burkhard Bensmann on . Posted in News.

How are you doing in these weeks of the year? Are you feeling strong and full of optimism, or are you feeling drained and disheartened? Perhaps even overwhelmed by everything?

If it’s the latter, that’s a concern—because as a leader, your energy and state of mind influence your employees, customers, suppliers, and everyone you interact with. I want to focus on how we can strengthen our mental immune system and offer some practical tips to help you do so.

The Common Definition: Immune System = Defense System

The body’s immune system is described as a defense mechanism that combats pathogens. According to various sources, such as the Federal Ministry of Education and Research and the Helmholtz Center for Infection Research, the immune system protects the body through mechanical, chemical, and biological mechanisms. Without it, we would be defenseless against viruses and bacteria, leaving us vulnerable to severe infections.

A Broader Definition: Focusing on the “Mental Immune System”

Now, let’s broaden our perspective on the immune system. Consider, as an experiment, the concept of a “mental immune system.” There’s a scientific discipline dedicated to studying this—the field of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI), which examines the interactions between stress, the immune system, and the nervous system.

PNI research shows that:

  • Acute stress can temporarily stimulate the immune system.
  • Chronic stress can lead to immunodeficiency.

Larger studies have also demonstrated that the occurrence of colds correlates with the intensity of experienced stress. This highlights the importance of mental well-being for our physical health.

4 Tips to Strengthen Your Mental Immune System

In the context of effective self-leadership, it’s crucial to take full responsibility for your health and mental state. This includes finding ways to strengthen your resilience. Here are some tips to boost your mental immune system:

Tip #1: What Can We Learn from This Situation?

Use this question to position yourself and prepare for the future. Sprinkle curiosity into this phase—for yourself and your team. Curiosity helps you look beyond the obvious and navigate uncertainty. Often, new opportunities that were previously invisible will come into view.

Also, celebrate your successes! Despite difficult circumstances, highlight the achievements you’ve made as a team. It’s a powerful reminder of how far you’ve come.

Tip #2: When Low Energy Strikes, Focus on Your Goals and Values

When the feeling of low energy becomes overwhelming, try focusing on your goals and values. Write them down and make them visible:

  • What are my goals?
  • What strategies do I need to achieve them?
  • What are the next steps?
  • What can I accomplish in this moment?
  • What is within my control?

Start with small steps and realize that you always have some degree of influence over your situation. Cultivating mindfulness in the present moment can help restore a sense of security and replenish your energy reserves.

Tip #3: Treat Yourself with Compassion

We are often our own harshest critics, especially when things don’t go as planned. When feeling down, we tend to use critical language with ourselves—language we’d never use with a close friend.

Self-compassion is essential for maintaining mental well-being. Be patient and kind with yourself, and engage in supportive self-talk. You deserve the same understanding you would offer someone else in a tough situation.

Tip #4: Take Care of Yourself with Light, Movement, and Relaxation

Sunlight plays a vital role in our well-being and specifically for our immune system. So, take time each day to move your body, even if it’s just a walk during lunch. Disconnecting from work and enjoying fresh air can work wonders.

In my book, “Self-Leadership: The Key to Being Productive,” I discuss tools to enhance your effectiveness and satisfaction. It covers topics such as:

  • Boosting self-motivation
  • A formula for success
  • Effective learning strategies
  • The social media diet
  • Simplifying life

One entire chapter is dedicated to “Strengthening Your Mental Immune System,” providing tested strategies that can benefit you both personally and professionally.

Recommended Reading

BJ Fogg: Tiny Habits: The Small Changes That Change Everything (2019)

Why read it?
This book offers a groundbreaking approach to creating lasting change by starting small. BJ Fogg demonstrates how tiny adjustments in daily routines can lead to significant personal and professional growth. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to build positive habits effortlessly and sustainably.