I’ve been a student of personal growth, self-improvement, and motivation for many, many years. I’d like to say that I’ve always put these practices into action throughout my life. But I’d be lying.
As best as I can recall, my personal growth journey began in my teenage years, when several people from my church and workplace (a grocery store) took an interest in me and shared some of the wisdom they’ve accumulated in life.
There weren’t any formal “sit-down” teaching times, that I recall. Mostly, it was a conversation here and there, while we worked together on a job or project.
Sometimes they shared some of their failings in life, and admonished me to avoid their mistakes.
Other times, they’d asked me a question like “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Then they’d tell me that I can be anything I want to be if I put my mind to it, make a plan, and stick with it no matter what.
I’m grateful for all the people who’ve encouraged me and told me that I could do it, from my earliest years until today. Yes, I’ve had my share of ups and downs…we all have. But I’ve always known, deep-down, that these things can be true in my life (and I believe they can be true in yours too):
- I can make things happen for me instead of to me
- I can take steps to create the life and lifestyle I want today
- I can live my dreams and achieve my personal goals.
- None of these things will happen without a plan and some action.
What about you? Have you been able to enjoy personal growth or self-improvement in your life? If so, what strategies have worked for you? If not, what’s holding you back?
[…] How my personal growth journey began […]