In the past year I have dedicated myself to personal development, to learning new concepts from experts on topics such as leadership, motivation, confidence, personalities… It has truly changed my mindset and the way I live my life. One of my favorite authors has been John C. Maxwell and I recently purchased his book, The Maxwell Daily Reader. It's a compilation from many of his different works and you read one passage every single day. This one really spoke to me, especially his very last line. I have recently been contemplating a job change, within my company, but it may not involve a raise. My first instinct was no raise, no move. But now this makes me think… if the job will teach me new skills and make me better and more marketable, isn't that worth MORE than a slight pay increase in the long run???
What are your thoughts?
Becoming Better and Better
By John C. Maxwell
There is nothing noble in being superior to someone else; progress is becoming superior to your previous self. Is that something you strive for? Do you try to become better than you were last year, last month, or last week? George Knox was right: "When you cease to be better, you cease to be good."
To become self-improving…
Become highly teachable. Pride is a serious enemy of self-improvement. For a month, put yourself in learning roles whenever possible. Instead of talking in meetings when people ask for advice, listen. Tackle a new discipline, even if it makes you feel inadequate. And ask questions anytime you don't understand something. Adopt the attitude of a learner, not an expert.
Plan your progress. Determine how you will learn on two levels. First, pick an area where you want to improve. Plan what books you will read, conferences you will attend, and experts you will interview for the next six months. Second, find learning moments wherever you can every day so that not a day passes without your experiencing improvement of some kind.
Value self-improvement above self-promotion. King Solomon of ancient Israel said, "Let instruction and knowledge mean more to you than silver or the finest gold. Wisdom is worth much more than precious jewels or anything else you desire." Make your next career move based on how it will improve you personally rather than how it will enhance you financially.
- The 17 Essential Qualities of a Team Player
WHAT SPECIFICALLY ARE YOU DOING TO CONTINUALLY GET BETTER?
