A Leadership Self-Check for Healing Leaders Who Want to Break the Cycle

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Let’s Dig In

This checklist is designed for self-aware managers who want to do better—especially those who have experienced toxic leadership themselves and are committed to not passing it forward.

It’s a short but powerful reflection tool to help leaders pause, check in with their habits, and reset where needed.

Whether you use it at the end of each quarter, after receiving team feedback, or during a leadership offsite—it’s here to keep you aligned with the type of manager you want to be.

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✅ How to Use This Checklist:

• Step 1: Check honestly – This isn’t about guilt; it’s about growth. Read each statement and check it off only if it’s consistently true for you.
• Step 2: Reflect where needed – Highlight any statements that made you pause or feel unsure.
• Step 3: Choose one to work on – Pick just one area to focus on over the next few weeks. (No one transforms overnight!)
• Step 4: Revisit regularly – Leadership is a practice. Re-check every 1-3 months.

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The 7-Point Self-Check:

☐ I trust my team to do their work without hovering.
→ Do I default to micromanaging¹, or do I offer support then step back?

^{1 Note: the Webster Dictionary definition of micromanaging is to manage especially with excessive control or attention to details}

☐ I actively check-in, and communicate clear goals, not just ‘figure it out’ expectations.
→ Do my team members know what success looks like—or just what failure feels like?

☐ I manage my emotions—my team doesn’t have to guess my mood._
→ Do I bring unpredictability to meetings or use stress as an excuse to lash out?

☐ I create space for different voices and backgrounds, without assumptions.
→ Am I actively inclusive—or just passively “open-minded”?

☐ I give credit generously and take accountability seriously.
→ Do I say “we” when things go well and “they” when things go wrong?

☐ I ask for feedback regularly—and act on it.
→ When’s the last time I invited criticism… and thanked someone for it?

☐ I apologize without defensiveness when I get it wrong.
→ Can I own a mistake without justifying it or making it about intent?

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Bonus: Journal Prompts for Deeper Reflection

• What’s one leadership trait I used to hate in past bosses—and am I at risk of repeating it?
• What’s one thing my team might hesitate to tell me?
• How do I want people to describe working with me 5 years from now?

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Some Encouragement:

You’re doing the work. That alone puts you ahead of the curve. Keep showing up, listening, learning—and leading with intention!

“You don’t have to be a perfect manager. Just one who keeps showing up and trying to do better.”

#ElevatePx #Management #LeadershipJourney #AreYouMyBoss