Hey Chris,
How do I even begin with self-development and personal growth?
I’ve heard it can help with so much in my life, especially my career. So I’m keen to get started, the right way.
Got any advice?
Signed,
Starting up
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Congratulations starting up! You heard right!
No matter what career you choose, focusing on self-development and personal growth are instrumental in creating the career enjoyment you want to experience.
Imagine starting a career and getting stuck in the same level, same grade or same position for 30 years!
It can and did happen!
In the 50’s and 60’s that’s what many people aspired to! I recall when I got hired into my first corporate gig, my parents were tickled pink! They said, oh you can stay with them your entire career/life.
Luckily that didn’t happen…lol
However, I will tell you that a focus on self-development, i.e., personal and professional growth were critical for me to move into higher levels, more responsibility and ultimately more money.
So if that’s something you’re interested in, I’d love to share some tips!
First, get comfortable with the fact that the path you start on will take a few twists and turns. That’s actually a good thing. It will help you build depth, experience and resilience…vital for career success.
You may focus on building your technical skills first vs. your professional skills, but know that you’re building your personal growth muscle no matter which you choose. Therefore, dig deep and grow wide.
No experience is ever wasted…keep that in mind.
Second, as you’re “focusing” never lose site of other opportunities. They will present themselves, because you’re on the personal growth path.
I’ll give you an example.
As I was building my professional skills in a staff assignment, I learned about professional coaching. I had already build deep skills in staff assignments and added wide relationship-building skills with executives.
I decided it would be a great opportunity and skill for me to develop my influence.. Turns out, I had the opportunity to use this newly developed coaching skill in a highly visible way. I was assigned the responsibility of bringing a coach-approach into my organization…with me leading it!
So keep your eyes and ears open for where an opportunity would nicely dovetail with your career pursuits and your personal growth.
Finally, and I think it’s the most important piece in answering your question.
This is YOUR journey in self-development and personal growth. No one can tell you exactly how to take it, because no one knows all you know, have experienced or truly want at the end of the day.
That’s what makes it an exciting and joyful pursuit.
Oh…and a lifetime one…let’s not forget that part…smile
My best to you…can’t wait to hear about your inevitable success!
~ Let life love you!
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