In one sense, we all should be different as an adult than we were as an adolescent. Especially as we grow to realize why WHO is important.
So, WHO am I now compared to WHO I used to be?
In one sense, we all should be different as an adult than we were as an adolescent.
Why? Because that’s part of the normal process of growing and maturing.
Thus, no growth – no change.
Begin with WHO
That said, how am I the same as when I was younger?
Most likely, I am as introverted now as when a teenager. Also, I’m about the same as far as being linear, logical, and rational.
Unfortunately, I’m probably only a bit better at sensing the emotional needs of others, then responding appropriately to those expressed needs.
Fortunately, my faith life is still a vitally-important part of my life. I suspect I have nearly the same sense of humor. Also, for better or worse, I’m slightly less sarcastic now than before!
Over time, I learned why WHO is important. It’s the basis for all professional, personal, and spiritual growth that follows! proverbsforprofessionals.net
How I’m different now
Some differences between Dale Young now (age 71 at the time of this writing) and “that other person” 50-or-so years earlier include the following:
1). As impatient as I am now, I’m much less angry than before. Except when I’m trapped behind some idiot driving the speed limit in the left lane!
2). I’ve become a better steward of the income and other assets provided by the Lord.
3). Occasionally, I will now think – for at least a split second – before responding. However, maybe you should check with my wife to confirm this!
4). One of the major changes that occurred, especially over the past fifteen years or so, is in my self-image. Intentional self-examination and deliberate professional growth helped me become more self-confident. In addition, I am aware of my capabilities and of what I have to offer to others.
What’s the model for this growth process? I used some of the basics I learned in Proverbs, that’s what! See the following diagram for details.
First, from Proverbs 4.5-7 we learning the value of sense making.
Then, from Proverbs 1.4-5 we learn the value of discernment and critical thinking.
Finally, from Proverbs 2.11-12 we learn about discretion and from Proverbs 22.3-4 we learn about the importance of foresight.
How did I get here?
My fifteen years as a dean, associate dean, several interim administrative assignments, and being the Board Chair of the Chamber of Commerce were one outcome of that improved self-image and growth in my self-confidence.
Actually, I made a deliberate choice to grow early in my academic career. In turn, that growth helped me set aside many of the personal issues I had growing up.
Self-awareness that is accurate, paired with self-confidence that is realistic, together form the starting point for pursuing life purpose. proverbsforprofessionals.net
But, beyond professional growth, what other factors have shaped who I am now?
Well, most certainly a 46+ year marriage. The joy of children and grandchildren. Life experiences such as being out of work and making a successful career change from industry into academia.
Granted, going back to school for a Ph.D. in my late 30’s was hard on me and on the family. Also, being turned down for the dean’s job late in my career was a major disappointment. However, coming out of that set-back was a renewed determination to grow professionally, as guided by several mentors. The outcome was becoming dean at a later date.
As I spent time studying Proverbs, I slowly became much more precept-driven. As such, that investment in growth helped build influence. As the following reference from 1 Kings 6.11-13 indicates, a precept-driven life can be impactful.
Finding new purpose
So, where to now?
Rather than retire, I chose to find a new purpose.
Hence, repurposing instead of retiring has led to writing a blog, plus weekday posts on LinkedIn. In both of those outlets I’m sharing what I learn each day about the balanced life from my study of Proverbs, as well as sharing from accumulated life experiences.
The journaling for the Proverbs study began in May 2016 as an aspect of my professional growth.
Now, why write a journal? Because I ran out of room to write on the pages of Proverbs in my Bible.
And, why a blog? After Page 600 of journaling I decided I needed to start giving something away!
Apply This Today!
I began the process of creating this blog about a year prior to retiring by hiring a developer to create the Web site that supports these posts. So, plan for any life transition.
Now I know why WHO is important! In short, it’s really satisfying to have a clear sense of self – my WHO, combined with a deeply understood life purpose – my WHY.
Knowing WHO and WHY enable us to live with purpose, on purpose!