09 Jan Four Strategies for Growth
Larry Sherrell, a transformational HR leader provides four key strategies that can help you navigate the difficulties of growth effectively. Growth and development, whether personal or professional, are often challenging endeavors that require strategic planning and commitment. Listen to the full episode for surefire strategies to propel your professional development to the next level. You can also get started with his simple four step strategy for navigating the challenges of growth.
Four Effective Strategies for Navigating the Challenges of Growth
1. Schedule Time for Development
Development is a “Quadrant 2” activity, meaning it is important but not urgent, as Stephen Covey outlined in his classic book “7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Because development rarely feels urgent, it often gets pushed to the bottom of our to-do lists. The solution? Schedule it. Just like any critical task, you need to put time for development on your calendar. If you wait until all urgent tasks are done, you’ll find there’s never any time left for growth. Setting specific goals and dedicating time slots for development ensures it remains a priority.
2. Seek Out Growth Opportunities
Adopting a growth mindset is essential for personal and professional development. This involves seeking out new experiences and intelligent risks that push you beyond your comfort zone. Think like a company aiming to grow its revenue and profitability; look for opportunities to expand your skills and knowledge. While setbacks are inevitable, they provide valuable learning experiences. Embrace the “three steps forward, two steps back” process and understand that resilience and adaptation are key components of growth.
3. Get Support from a Mentor or Coach
Having a mentor or coach can significantly impact your growth journey. Most successful individuals have someone in their corner—be it a coach, a mentor, or a trusted advisor. These relationships provide guidance, support, and a fresh perspective, especially when facing difficult decisions or challenges. Whether it’s someone within your organization or an external advisor, having a mentor can help you navigate complex situations more effectively and make better-informed decisions.
4. Build Confidence
Confidence is crucial when you’re expanding your horizons and acquiring new skills. Believing in yourself and your ability to succeed, even in the face of setbacks, is essential. Take inspiration from leaders who confidently took on the challenge of leading with the mindset that “out of failure comes success.” Confidence allows you to approach new challenges with a positive attitude and the determination to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth.
Conclusion
Implementing these four strategies—scheduling time for development, seeking growth opportunities, getting support from a mentor, and building confidence—can help you navigate the difficulties of growth more effectively. Remember, growth is a journey that requires patience, resilience, and a proactive approach. By prioritizing your development and maintaining a positive mindset, you’ll be better equipped to overcome challenges and achieve your goals.