Topic(s)
- People-centric leadership
We’re often taught the importance of Hansei- the art of self-reflection- to better target future improvements. While we may be comfortable using this tool with our teams or on projects, we often neglect to use it when considering the quality of our leadership. At the same time, we look at others in positions of power and wonder how they could be completely oblivious to the impact they have on those around them.
An old proverb states that your perception is defined by three mirrors; the first mirror is how you see yourself, the second mirror is how others perceive you, and the third mirror is the truth. Self-reflection can bring immeasurable clarity but only if we are using the appropriate mirror and are brave enough to look. Through the examination of various types of “mirrors” that cloud our self-reflection we are better able to gain a clear picture of how our “leadership” impacts others and actively work to ensure a more positive experience for those around us.
With the use of interactive technologies, we can get real-time feedback and collect data over time to focus our improvement efforts on the areas that have the greatest effect on our teams, organizations, and all who interact with us. By implementing a simple method, we can clear our mirrors, leverage that new clarity to really see what it is like to be on the other side of us and choose our path forward accordingly.
- Identify how our personal mirrors are clouded
- Learn how to bring clarity to our leadership impact through self-reflection
- Integrate interactive technologies to gain insights on your leadership for better targeting of improvements
Applied Energetics (AE), headquartered in Tucson, AZ, is focused on delivering advanced laser and photonics systems, incorporating fiber-based ultrashort pulse (USP) solutions, to support commercial and national security markets. https://www.appliedenergetics.com
Keeley Hurley is a dynamic leader in continuous improvement with over 20 years of hands-on experience driving operational excellence across engineering, manufacturing, and quality systems. From championing lean transformations and leading ISO 9001 certifications, to developing cross-functional training programs and coaching high-performance teams, Keeley has consistently delivered measurable impact. Currently serving as Engineering Project Manager at Applied Energetics and previously holding multiple leadership roles at Coherent, Inc., Keeley has led complex global projects, implemented QMS frameworks, and developed data-driven tools that align daily execution with strategic goals. A certified manager of quality/organizational excellence Keeley brings a practitioner’s perspective and a coach’s mindset to every engagement—focused on building systems, cultures, and habits that sustain improvement. 
