Leading self: self-development in a global context

Individual-level development for global leaders is critical for navigating the complexities of global challenges. Global leaders must start by understanding themselves, recognizing their strengths, weaknesses, values, beliefs and biases. Self-awareness forms the foundation for effective leadership, helping leaders understand how their personal attributes can impact their leadership style and interactions with others. We begin by exploring the concepts of identity, global identity and identity crisis, and the key moments when individuals make sense of who they are in a rapidly changing world, before introducing the concept of cultural intelligence, emphasizing the importance of the ability to adapt and work effectively across different cultural contexts. Global leaders should be committed to continuous learning and personal growth, essential tools for adapting to the ever-evolving global landscape. We accentuate the role of well-being and self-care in maintaining a healthy and resilient global identity, highlighting the need for balance and self-nurturing.