Book Review: Self-Coaching The Dragon Within: the Hardest Person You’ll Ever Lead is You

My latest leadership read has been Self-Coaching The Dragon Within: the Hardest Person You’ll Ever Lead is You by Kellie Garrett. This book is well worth your time and consideration as it provides context for self-development that applies to work, home, and personal relationships.

Garrett approaches leadership as a way of being, not as a title or a list of management do’s and don’ts. She illustrates how many of us deal with inner “dragons” such as self-criticism, perfectionism, low confidence, distrust, and conflict with colleagues and how these patterns distort judgment and keep people from acting in alignment with their values. While others have used the dragon metaphor in various ways, Garrett uses it effectively to address the inner messages and conflict we experience as we attempt to be better leaders, partners, and friends.

The book’s framework around self-coaching is very beneficial, especially to those with some context for what she is presenting. Garrett focuses on building the capacity to notice one’s automatic reactions, question limiting beliefs, and choose more constructive responses. She does, however, appropriately indicate that those suffering from ongoing depression, anxiety, or other mental health realities should seek professional help with a qualified coach or psychologist.

Garrett’s self-coaching model and reflective exercises at the end of each chapter are helpful with turning insights into accessible practice, especially when we are feeling stressed, are in the midst of interpersonal conflict, or are doubting our perspectives.

#Self-Coaching #Coaching #LeadershipDevelopment #Personalgrowth