D024 Phase 1 Reflection on Leadership and Growth Strategies
Student Name
Western Governors University
D024 Professional Presence and Influence
Prof. Name
Date
Phase 1 Summary
Reflecting on the knowledge acquired throughout this course and the completion of Phase 1 activities, I have gained a more comprehensive understanding of leadership principles, effective leadership behaviors, and the role of mindfulness in professional practice. The course emphasized intentional self-reflection, which allowed me to critically examine my leadership approach within the hospital environment and identify specific areas for growth. This structured reflection has supported my professional development and strengthened my confidence as a nurse leader.
A key practical outcome of Phase 1 was the development of a professional LinkedIn profile. Establishing this profile enabled me to begin building a professional network with other nurse leaders and healthcare professionals. Through this experience, I learned the importance of leveraging digital platforms to enhance professional visibility, foster collaboration, and remain informed about leadership opportunities within healthcare. Moving forward, I plan to consistently use LinkedIn as a professional development and networking resource.
An essential lesson from this course was the value of therapeutic listening and intentional communication. Strengthening these skills has positively influenced my interactions with colleagues, particularly those who may be resistant or disengaged. When addressing concerns such as incomplete tasks or noncompliance, I intentionally shifted my communication style from asking “why” questions to asking “what” questions. Rather than implying blame, I now focus on identifying obstacles and offering support by asking questions such as, “What barriers are preventing this from being completed?” and “What resources or tools do you need to be successful?” This approach has fostered trust, encouraged collaboration, and improved both staff engagement and patient satisfaction. While I continue to refine my active listening and mindfulness skills, the strategies learned in this course have provided a strong foundation for ongoing leadership growth.
What Have I Learned About Professional Presence?
Through reflection on my Phase 1 CPE activities, I have recognized significant growth in my professional presence. I have become more self-aware of how my communication style, behaviors, and values shape how others perceive me as a leader. Throughout my nursing career, I have often stated that my motivation for entering the profession was “to help people and make a difference.” However, the readings and reflective exercises in this course allowed me to explore this motivation more deeply.
As a result, I now have greater clarity regarding my personal strengths, areas for improvement, and long-term professional goals. This insight has strengthened my sense of purpose and reinforced my commitment to ethical, compassionate, and effective leadership within healthcare. Developing a strong professional presence has also enhanced my ability to lead authentically and align my actions with my core values.
How Has Updating My LinkedIn Profile Influenced Me?
Updating my LinkedIn profile was a transformative experience prompted by this course. Previously, I had not prioritized maintaining an online professional presence. However, in today’s digital and interconnected healthcare environment, an updated professional profile is essential for networking, career advancement, and professional credibility.
One of the most challenging aspects of this process was writing the “Summary” section. Initially, I felt uncertain and insecure about articulating my professional identity. Through reflection, I was able to clearly express my passion for nursing, my leadership philosophy, and my career aspirations, even while acknowledging the challenges experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Completing this profile helped me feel connected to a broader professional community and reinforced my sense of belonging among nurse leaders. Additionally, exposure to recruiters and career opportunities has increased my optimism and motivation as I approach the completion of my academic program.
What Are My Plans for Support and Accountability?
To sustain my professional growth and leadership development, I plan to actively engage with established sources of support and accountability. Regular communication with my mentor will remain a priority, as mentorship provides encouragement, constructive feedback, and professional guidance. Although initiating consistent phone conversations may feel challenging at times, I recognize their importance in maintaining accountability and professional momentum.
In addition, I intend to utilize course instructors as academic and professional resources when facing uncertainty or challenges related to coursework or leadership practice. Knowing that experienced professionals are available for guidance increases my confidence and reinforces my willingness to seek assistance when needed. These support systems will play a critical role in my continued leadership development.
Summary Table of Key Insights
| Question | Answer / Reflection |
|---|---|
| What have I learned about leadership? | Leadership requires mindfulness, self-awareness, and effective communication, with an emphasis on supportive, solution-focused approaches rather than blame. |
| How has therapeutic communication helped me? | It strengthened professional relationships by replacing “why” questions with “what” questions, promoting understanding, collaboration, and improved staff and patient satisfaction. |
| How have I developed my professional presence? | Through increased self-reflection, improved communication, and a clearer understanding of my professional values, strengths, and career vision. |
| What impact did updating my LinkedIn profile have? | It enhanced my professional identity, expanded networking opportunities, increased career visibility, and fostered a sense of belonging within the nursing community. |
| How do I plan to maintain accountability? | By engaging regularly with my mentor and instructors to receive guidance, encouragement, and expert feedback. |
References
American Nurses Association. (2021). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice (4th ed.). ANA Publishing.
Brown, B. (2018). Dare to lead: Brave work. Tough conversations. Whole hearts. Random House.
D024 Phase 1 Reflection on Leadership and Growth Strategies
Goleman, D., Boyatzis, R., & McKee, A. (2013). Primal leadership: Unleashing the power of emotional intelligence. Harvard Business Review Press.
Sherman, R. O. (2022). The nurse leader coach: Become the boss no one wants to leave. Sigma Theta Tau International.