We all start out ignorant—an unconscious incompetent—not knowing that we don’t know. Yet thinking we know a lot.

Then we gain some awareness and realize there is so much more that we still don’t know—we’re a conscious incompetent. 

In fact, one of the greatest realizations is that we will never know all there is to know and that life is a journey of gaining awareness and taking actions in response to our increased awareness. Hence, all learning and development begins with awareness.

When we take responsibility for the things we become aware of and take appropriate action our skill and capability increase—becoming the conscious competent.

Then, the more we practice and form habits around our expanded awareness we don’t even realize all the things we now do with great skill—unconscious competence.

That is why great leaders seek awareness. It not only broadens their perspective, but gives more options for actions. 

In this way awareness becomes the ultimate antidote for insanity. Awareness, reveals new pathways to avoid doing the same [ineffective] things over and over. 

Herb Mast is a Leadership Coach and Employee Engagement Specialist. Learn how he can assist you in implementing the principles and concepts presented here.