Starting your day by thinking about what kind of leader you want to be can help you become more effective at work — even when you're not in charge, a new study finds.
"It's as simple as taking a moment in the morning while drinking coffee to think about who you want to be as a leader," said Remy Jennings, a doctoral student at the Warrington College of Business at the University of Florida who authored the study.
When the study participants took that step, they were more likely to report helping colleagues and providing strategic vision than on days when they didn't do the morning reflection. They also felt more leaders in those days and saw more power and influence in the office. The effects extended to aspiring leaders as well.
“Leadership is really challenging, so many people are hesitant to take on leadership roles or assignments,” Lanaj said. ”Thinking for a few minutes in the morning really makes a difference.”
And unlike being given extra responsibility or leading a team project, a morning reflection is under the control of the employee.
“They don't depend on their organization to provide formal opportunities. They don't have to wait until they have that title that says they're a leader to take leadership in their work,” said Jennings.
Want to try a morning leadership boost? Here are some pointers recommended by the researchers.
Whether you're in charge or on your way up the ladder, "this is a tool for being more effective at work." said Lanaj. “Just a few minutes can completely change your focus for the rest of your day.”
