One way to determine where I am is to take time for reflection. That is, take time to check in with where I am in regard to my goals.
The Essentials
It’s important, I think, to take time to step back and ask “Where am I?”
In fact, at the start of each quarter I see a number of social media posts about goal setting, progress toward goals, and reflection on what’s next.
So, what are the essentials for this check-in process? Here are three key elements:
1). Learn as you go – be teachable and flexible in order to learn from experiences. That learning can produce course corrections to address challenges.
2). Stoke that desire – stay hungry! Remember why you started, then focus there.
3). Keep digging – put in the hard work every day that keeps you on the path toward the goal.
Together these three are the how, why, and what of achievement.
It’s unrealistic to believe I have the physical or mental capacity to do everything I desire in the impossible time frame I imagine. But, it’s equally unrealistic to believe I can be no more and do no more than who I am and what I am already! proverbsforprofessionals.net
The Precept
In Proverbs 2.1-4 we get to listen in on a parent-child conversation. Here, the dad emphasizes:
First, a learning character, Proverbs 2.1-2,
Second, a deep desire for making sense of life events, Proverbs 2.3, and
Third, a persistent effort to grow that’s compared to hunting for treasure, Proverbs 2.4.
The Precept: Experiential learning transforms my character, not my intellect! proverbsforprofessionals.net
Outcomes from this intentional growth, mentioned later in the same conversation, include:
Discernment, Proverbs 2.5, that produces
Good judgment, Proverbs 2.9, which in turn is bounded by
Justice and equity, Proverbs 2.9.
Well, that’s a pretty good return on time invested in being a learner!
It’s one thing to see a personal or professional growth opportunity. However, it’s something very different to act on that opportunity! proverbsforprofessionals.net
Apply This Today!
This process of Learning-Maintaining focus-Persisting is certainly applicable to reaching annual goals.
But, more critically, I believe, the process of value for reaching personal growth goals.
Remember, experience is the best teacher only when I learn from those experiences!
Therefore, take time to check in! Then, act on what you observe!
That said, what can you add to flexibility, motivation, and persistence as critical growth traits?
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