Most managers are constantly busy with reviewing, evaluating, planning and setting new goals. However, one important skill is often overlooked, yet it determines a leader’s growth: reflective thinking — the ability to look back and learn from their own experiences.
Reflective thinking is not about “looking for mistakes,” but a systematic process of looking back to understand what was done, what the results were, and why those results occurred. Through reflection, managers not only recognize errors but also identify patterns behind success and draw lessons from failure. Although rarely taught formally, it is a “hidden competence” that enables sustainable leadership development.
To develop reflective skills, managers can start with three questions after each event: What happened? Why did it happen? How will I do it differently next time? They can also apply the STOP method (Stop – Think – Observe – Plan) to quickly draw lessons from important activities. In addition, brief daily note-taking helps build a personal “bank of lessons” rich in practical value. Reflection should also be practiced in groups through After Action Review (AAR) sessions to foster a shared learning culture. When done consistently, reflection becomes a habit that helps managers stay calmer, identify problems more clearly, and make decisions more effectively.
In a constantly changing world, managers can quickly acquire professional knowledge, but true leadership strength is shaped through real-world challenges and experience. Therefore, reflective thinking becomes an “inner compass” that helps managers stay oriented and grow with every decision they make. A strong leader is not someone who is always right, but someone who knows when to pause, reflect on themselves, understand others, and move forward with greater wisdom after each experience.
