August 10, 2023

Years ago I was blessed to spend some time with leadership expert John Maxwell. He was speaking at a Leadership Conference in Kansas City. Immediately following his presentation, I made my way through the crowd to the front of the auditorium where he was signing books and taking pictures. I asked him, "John could I pay you $100 to go out to lunch with me? I want to learn more and be a better leader for our church family."

John graciously agreed and together we found a quiet room to have lunch together eating sub sandwiches. He said so many great things that afternoon, but the thing that really stuck out to me was a question he asked me.

"Dave, can I see your PERSONAL GROWTH PLAN?" I was a little confused, and seeing the look on my face he continued, "What are you doing EVERYDAY to grow, learn, and improve your skills?" Sadly, I didn't have one, but from that moment on I was going to make sure I did!

"Growth is the great separator between those who succeed and those who do not. When I see a person beginning to separate themselves from the pack, it's almost always due to personal growth."
— John Maxwell

"We can't become what we need to be by remaining what we are."
— Oprah Winfrey

Personal growth never happens accidentally. It happens on purpose, and as the result of a series of important decisions.

Here are a few decisions to help get you started on the right track:

1. Make a commitment to change. — The very idea of growth implies not staying where you are.
2. Focus on your strengths. — Instead of becoming preoccupied with your weaknesses, focus on what you do well and strive to excel in those areas.
3. Put yourself in a growth environment. — You can’t grow in an environment that doesn't sustain life. Make it a point to be around people and experiences that challenge you and bring out the best in you.
4. Learn to enjoy the journey. — Keep in mind that growth is a lifelong process, not a one-time event. You’ll never arrive or reach the point where there is nothing new that you can possibly learn or achieve.

"The other side of the coin to success isn't failure, it's growth."
— Jim Collins

Remember that if something isn't growing, it's in the process of dying. I encourage you to keep your dreams and vision alive by making personal growth a lifestyle for yourself and by creating an environment for growth in your workplace.

Question for Growth: Do you have a daily personal growth plan written out?

Book Recommendation:

The Success Journey -  The Process of Living Your Dreams by John Maxwell

God is for YOU,
Pastor David Blunt