A SelfReflection Of Myself And The Areas I Want To Improve To Have A Transactional Leadership Style And Become A Transformational Leader

Jan 8, 2024 transactional leadership style transformational leader Sociology Social science

Title: Self-Reflection on Transitioning from Transactional to Transformational Leadership

Introduction

Leadership is a dynamic and evolving concept, and the journey from being a transactional leader to a transformational one requires continuous self-reflection and growth. In this essay, I will explore my current leadership style, self-reflect on areas that require improvement, and outline the steps I plan to take in my quest to become a transformational leader.

I. Current Leadership Style

At this point, I recognize that my leadership style leans more toward the transactional side of the spectrum. Transactional leadership is characterized by a focus on the exchange of rewards and punishments in order to achieve specific goals. While this style has its merits in certain situations, I have identified some aspects that may require adjustment.

Emphasis on Task Completion: My approach often revolves around setting clear expectations, monitoring progress, and providing rewards or corrective actions based on individual or team performance.

Stability and Efficiency: I tend to value stability and efficiency in the short term, which may sometimes limit my ability to embrace change and inspire others to do the same.

II. Areas for Improvement

To transition from a transactional to a transformational leadership style, I have identified the following areas that require improvement:

Inspirational Leadership: Transformational leadership hinges on the ability to inspire and motivate others. To improve in this area, I need to work on my communication skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to share a compelling vision that resonates with my team.

Individual Growth and Development: Transformational leaders prioritize the personal and professional development of their team members. I need to invest more time in understanding the unique strengths and weaknesses of each team member and providing opportunities for growth.

Embracing Change: Transformational leadership often involves driving change and innovation. I must become more comfortable with change, take calculated risks, and encourage a culture of creativity and adaptability.

Active Listening: Active listening is a critical component of effective leadership. I need to improve my ability to genuinely listen to the concerns and ideas of my team members, making them feel valued and heard.

III. Steps to Become a Transformational Leader

To evolve as a transformational leader, I plan to take the following steps:

Self-Awareness: I will continue to engage in self-reflection and seek feedback from peers and team members to better understand my strengths and weaknesses as a leader.

Leadership Development Programs: I will invest in leadership development programs, workshops, and courses to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to transition effectively to a transformational leadership style.

Mentorship and Coaching: I will seek out a mentor or coach who can provide guidance, support, and feedback as I work on becoming a more transformational leader.

Team Empowerment: I will empower my team by involving them in decision-making processes, encouraging their ideas, and fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Modeling Transformational Behavior: I will lead by example, demonstrating the qualities and behaviors of a transformational leader, such as empathy, vision, and a commitment to personal and team growth.

Conclusion

Transitioning from a transactional to a transformational leadership style is a journey that requires self-reflection, self-awareness, and dedication to personal growth. By acknowledging my current leadership style, identifying areas for improvement, and outlining specific steps to evolve, I am committed to becoming a more inspirational and impactful leader. This journey is not just about my own growth but also about empowering my team and creating a positive and transformative work environment.