Today, I want to share a bit about my growth process and its humbling effect, and I hope it inspires your growth.
I registered for a professional development program a few months ago and was excited about the whole process.
I remember going through the details of the program at the beginning and ticking off a couple of the modules like they were a walk in the park – as per the badass professional that I am, lol.
Little did I know.
A few weeks into the program, I began to see myself differently as I gained more exposure and clarity.
I felt like I was looking in the mirror and seeing a different Ayokanmi.
The experience was similar to the biblical illustration in 1st Corinthians 3:13 – almost like the quality of my entire work experience was tested and was found wanting.
I realized that I wasn’t as badass as I thought I was. I had been slacking where I thought I was slaying.
It was a humbling experience for me, and I cried!
It pained me to think of how others might have perceived me or my work, and I felt disappointed.
Sigh!
Nonetheless, as painful and embarrassing as that experience was, I was happy that it helped me to see things differently. It ultimately led to my growth.
Amidst the tears, I felt thankful for the experience and exposure the program afforded me, and I felt confident I would do better going forward.
In retrospect, that program redefined me and gave my career a significant reset. Today, I’m more intentional with how I show up to work – not just with my physical appearance but also with my mental, intellectual and professional delivery.
In addition, I recently put some of the skills I learned during the program to work, which yielded outstanding results. This is why I decided to share this experience with you in the hopes that it inspires your journey positively.
One of the ways we get more grounded perspectives about ourselves is by seeking radical candor.
And I mean that not just from friends and colleagues, but also from personal and professional development.
Meanwhile, I know you might think that “no one knows you better than you do”, but the truth is, there is only so much you know about yourself.
It will do you good to expose yourself to honest and constructive feedback from people and programs that help refine your strengths and reveal your blind spots.
This is how we improve our self-awareness, grow and evolve into the highest versions of ourselves.
Bear in mind that your growth process will not come easy. It will stretch and sometimes hurt you, but it will be worth it.
So, take that bold step to do better for yourself.
Sign up for that program.
Attend that event.
Pay for that course.
Speak with that coach.
Whatever it takes, do something that betters your journey and impacts others positively.
I hope you found this inspiring, have a pleasant day!
