Understanding Yourself to Lead Better
You cannot paint everybody with the same brush. I see this often, especially in families. Parents will say, I treat all my kids the same, so I don’t understand why one is struggling more than the others. The truth is, even within the same family, each child is different. They
respond differently. The same principle applies in business. You have to put in the effort to understand your own personality, the personalities of those around you, and what makes each of you thrive.
How you see yourself directly influences how you treat others. If you don’t like being treatedas if you are the same as everyone else, you should start with understanding yourself. Studying your own strengths, weaknesses, personality style, and even how you relate to
people allows you to develop a humble appreciation of yourself. When you recognize your flaws and accept them, you can also value the people around you. You stop dismissing others out of arrogance or insecurity.
The Connection Between Self-Worth and Leadership
Self-worth is critical in leadership. John Maxwell talks about the idea that people rise to the level of what they believe they are worthy of. The same applies to leaders. You rise or fall based on your sense of worth. That is why I focus first on building my own sense of self-
worth, and then on helping others build theirs. You can teach skills all you want, but leadership skills without personal development can make you manipulative. Leadership with personal development and a healthy sense of self-worth allows you to lead with inspiration,
not control.
Valuing others, even when it is difficult, is part of good leadership. Often the easier path is the low road, but the higher road is more rewarding. Choosing the higher road allows you to live a deeper, wider, and more fulfilling life.
Choosing the Higher Road in Leadership
Yes, people may take advantage of you at times, but reducing yourself to protect against that risk comes at a higher cost. Suspicion and distrust will limit your impact, and your life becomes narrow and small.
I would rather take the risk of being generous and trusting. By doing so, you create a culture of respect and purpose. Your team, your colleagues, and everyone you lead benefit when you lead from a place of self-worth and integrity. Every day, the choice to value others while maintaining your own sense of worth shapes the quality of your leadership and the life you live.
Dr Imraan Choonara is a global keynote speaker, leadership strategist, entrepreneur, and mentor with nearly three decades of experience empowering individuals and organizations to thrive.
His work has impacted thousands of lives across more than 30 countries—including the UAE, Malaysia, South Africa, and beyond. As a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader, Dr Imraan brings firsthand experience of building and growing ventures, allowing him to
speak not just from theory—but from the trenches of real-world business.
A Maxwell Leadership Certified team member, Imraan is known for blending corporate insight with entrepreneurial acumen and timeless human values. He brings a unique energy and clarity to every stage, meeting room, and coaching session, inspiring transformation
from the inside out.
If you’re ready to focus on personal growth, strengthen your leadership, or inspire your team, Contact Dr Imraan Choonara to assist. Book a one-on-one session with Dr Imraan Choonara to develop yourself intentionally, or invite him for a speaking engagement to motivate and guide your team toward personal excellence.
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By Dr Imraan Choonara
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