A journey implies there are options as to what path to take. I have not found one formula to navigate growth that fits all situations. It depends on the context of the situation, and always involves making a choice. Moreover, with all the uncertainty that comes with it, we need to adapt as we grow forth.
The destination implies something different; that there is only one destination. Which would indicate only one way to get there. Being fixated on one destination can hinder our creativity and limit what can be achieved.
“Be patient with yourself. You are growing stronger every day. The weight of the world will become lighter . . . and you will begin to shine brighter. Don’t give up.” —Robert Tew
Navigating Growth’s Diverse Journey
To navigate growth is a challenge. The challenge is when we are given a goal or objective, like “To provide the best wireless experience to every customer, every time”, or “Care for every person”, or “Be the best version of yourself”; how do we respond? Are we fixated on the outcome or are we open to the possibilities in the moment?
Let us be real, each new day is a new opportunity to achieve. I contend no one wakes up wanting to fail. For most of us, we start our day with varying degrees of hope, optimism and a desire to do the best we can. We have initiatives to own, and problems to solve. Even with clarity within our organization, there are no guarantees of the outcome. We win some, make mistakes, learn lessons, adjust, and still keep trying. Growth, like life, will always have varying degrees of success and failure. We figure it out as we go, and each moment is the next step in our journey.
Insights Gained from Navigating Growth
If we believe only in the destination, it can limit our overall experience. We may rigidly follow one path with blinders on and miss all the little moments along the way. In a state of impatience when things are not going our way, we may find ourselves putting a square peg into a round hole. All of this makes up what is known as a fixed mindset.
On the other hand, when we understand that journeys can be flexible, we might encounter new experiences, learn valuable lessons, or even surpass expectations. Having an open mindset expands our opportunities, deepens our understanding, and broadens our possibilities. We may even build confidence by becoming adaptable as we grow forward. This is known as a growth mindset.
When you and I stand at the crossroads, we will think about our choice. Will we strain to see as far as we can, imaging the destination, and the way to get there? Or will we look down at our feet, and take a step forward, curious and excited about a new journey to take?
Embracing the Fluidity of Growth
Questions to take away and consider:
- Firstly, how do you navigate growth in your professional and personal life?
- Secondly, does growth happen to you, or do you embrace and engage in the opportunities to grow?
- Additionally, do you see growth as an outcome or a never-ending experience of ‘decide-do-learn-keep doing-keep learning’?
- Ultimately, how do you measure growth?
In the realm of growth, embracing the journey over fixating on the destination fosters a mindset of exploration, adaptation, and continual learning, revealing not just what we achieve, but who we become along the way. Want to learn more perspectives about growth and leadership? Visit our podcast or visit one of our locations.
