3) Challenge increases
When you combine culture shifts with the advancement of life, the result is complexity.
As life and leadership become more complex, the daily leadership challenges we face increase in the level of scope and difficulty.
Again, the way to keep up is to grow as a leader. It’s important not to see this growth as a chore, or a task to complete.
In short, make growth fun! Personal development isn’t easy, but it need not seem like “more work.”
One of the best things about continued growth is that the people who want to grow with you are among the very best people to be around.
They make the process enjoyable. They sharpen, challenge and encourage you.
One of the things I love most about the staff of 12Stone Church is that we are definitely a personal growth-oriented, leadership development environment. The staff are so smart, competent and full of passion! They help me be a better leader!
5 Results of Growth:
- Personal growth sharpens your ability to think.
- Personal growth makes you a more interesting person.
- Personal growth increases your capacity.
- Personal growth enhances your relationships.
- Personal growth increases your motivation and energy.
You have to want to grow, and you must keep it simple, or you are likely to throw in the towel.
A Simple Approach:
1) Identify one or two specific areas you want to develop and grow.
Design your growth plan and write it down. If you are not sure where you need to start, ask a trusted advisor or friend who knows you well and is strong enough to tell you the truth.
2) Determine a way you can measure your progress.
How do you know if you are better? How do you assess improvement? Make sure you have that clear before you begin.
3) Get the coaching and guidance you need.
Sometimes you know what to do and how to do it, at least enough to start. At other times, in specific areas, you need a coach or a mentor. Don’t over complicate this part. You can often gain what you need over a long cup of coffee or two with someone who can offer you wisdom and insight.
4) Practice, practice, practice.
All of us get better only by actually practicing what we want to improve. It may be communication skills, hearing the voice of God, recruiting, strategy development, connecting with people, etc.
The list is nearly unending in possibilities. But remember, keep your list short. In fact, working on only one thing at a time, two at the most, is best.
Enjoy the journey of personal growth, it’s a lifelong road to travel.
This article originally appeared here.
