Don't make this mistake

Jenni Catron July 3, 2021

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Do you find the pace of life and your daily leadership responsibilities astronomical? Maybe you're moving up in your organization, and you feel the need to learn and grow to stay sharp and bring outstanding value to your team or organization. But no one owes you a development plan; your development is up to you. The mistake most leaders make is not taking the initiative to learn and grow.

I read an article that said today's culture has access to as much information in one day as our ancestors 100 years ago had in a lifetime. No wonder we're overwhelmed. We've all felt the pressure of organizational expectations knowing we need to do, learn, and grow more, but how do you implement a consistent learning rhythm?

Here are a few insights into what I'm doing and how I'm taking responsibility for my growth and leadership development.

1. Read every day

It's difficult to make space for reading, but I read ten to sixty minutes a day. Yes, it can be challenging to build into your busy schedule, but ten minutes a day adds up to five hours per month. Let your daily habit build momentum. You could knock out four to six books a year.

Try to get up ten minutes earlier, and spend that time reading. Books come in different delivery methods. You could choose a physical book, digital books, or audiobooks. Find what works for you. I usually read a passage of Scripture that will spiritually inspire or challenge me, and I add pages from a business or leadership book. I also read biographies on the weekend that unlock a wealth of insights from leaders who have gone before us.

2. Take time for courses, conferences, and podcasts

When I'm on the treadmill, elliptical, or running (on good-weather days) I am always listening to a podcast. Podcasts are a great way to get insights and information from other thought leaders. In fact, we include an easy link to my podcast in our newsletter each week, and I'd be honored for you to start this habit with The Jenni Catron Leadership Podcast!

Courses and conferences can be inspiring and life-giving. Ask yourself, how do I need to grow this year? Consider the environment or the conference space that would fuel your goals and personal development. With so many digital offerings available currently, the once cost-prohibitive travel and ticket costs are much more affordable. Access to excellent content is more available than ever.

3. Find intentional communities for growth

You need two-way communication for growth and learning. When you find a connection through a coaching relationship, mastermind or coaching intensive where you're getting interaction and you can talk about your recent insights, successes, and struggles, it will provide awareness and accountability for growth.

Connection is critical, and that's what most of us miss. I joined my first coaching cohort about a dozen years ago, and I still meet and talk with most of those leaders. It was a valuable learning experience for me, and it's one of the reasons why I'm so passionate about the coaching and group intensives that 4Sight offers.

This article was first published onget4sight.com. Used with permission.

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Jenni Catron is a writer, speaker, and leadership coach who consults churches and non-profits to help them lead from their extraordinary best. As Founder and CEO of The 4Sight Group, she consults with individuals and teams on leadership and organizational health. Learn More »

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