We either grow or die. This principle comes from iPEC (Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching) and may at first seem shocking for some. But, think about it…what lives that doesn’t grow?
As human beings, most of us desire some level of comfort and security. While comfort and security makes us feel warm, cozy and there is a part of us that wants things to stay “just as they are”, it is prudent to recognize that change is ever present/ever happening. Getting to a “good place” and wanting to stay there is totally normal, however, we must be mindful of becoming complacent.
Complacency can be the enemy of growth.
Let’s be careful that we don’t become so complacent that we begin to fight to stay in a particular place that has become comfortable, i.e. our comfort zone. This can lead to stagnation and the results of stagnation can be missed opportunities for growth and blessings. Growth in turn can lead to far better outcomes than we can imagine.
Since complacency carries a rather negative tone (i.e. don’t become complacent) and begins with the letter c, let’s look now at 5+1 more positive c words to support your personal growth.
#1: Courage. Courage is the ability to do something that you know is difficult or dangerous. Growth often seems to be difficult or dangerous, yet grow we must. Be strong and have the courage to stand up, show up, and step boldly into your yes and be firm in your no.
#2: Confidence. Confidently move into the direction that you have chosen (i.e. towards your goals—set goals). Don’t wait on perfection. Get moving. Confidence builds as you keep moving and giving yourself permission to make course corrections along the way. After all, even airplanes are off course 99% of the time yet most still arrive at their destination close to the anticipated time. Oh, and, while off course, be sure to enjoy the journey!
#3: Clarity. Cultivate the quality of clarity-being easily understood. The acronym KISS for “Keep it simple, stupid” is so appropriate. According to Wikipedia, this acronym was noted by the U.S. Navy in 1960 as a design principle, which states that most systems work best if they are kept simple rather than made complicated; therefore simplicity should be a key goal in design and unnecessary complexity should be avoided.
#4: Compassion. Approach everything you do with compassion for yourself and others… as the song goes “put a little love in your heart”.
#5: Creativity. Yes, we left-brained people are creative. Be on the lookout for new things or new ideas. Guard against becoming so attached to the outcome or how you envision the goal that you miss out on something better than you could imagine. How exciting!
+1: Celebration. As we grow and change, it is very important to honor that part of us that just wants to say “aaahhhh” by remembering to celebrate our successes. Personal growth by nature means ever-changing and so often we rush to the next thing, step, or project. In all things and in all ways remember to celebrate your successes. This will tap you in to the frequency of success. Take time to celebrate and feel the joy… smile J…then move forward with renewed energy.
Grow where you dare!
Abound in grace, Karen
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