The other day, I listened to somebody explain how they invested in themselves by continuing to challenge themselves to learn and improve their leadership skills. If you are a business person, your craft is that of a leader. The talk could best be summed up by saying that you’re not a leader if you don’t invest in yourself.
I have always considered myself a continuous learner, finding joy and fulfillment in the process. But this topic challenged me as if I didn’t have a plan. That would make me an accidental learner, a seeker without a plan.
So, I set about documenting a plan.
What follows is what I do to keep myself sharp in business. (I also plan to stay active in studying and focus on my Christian Faith).
Every year, I read at least ten books on business and leadership.
I attend at least one professional conference a year.
I listen to four podcasts on business subjects. (The Working Genius, The Table Group, Managers Tools, and Dave Ramsey’s EntreLeadership)
I read the Manager’s Tool weekly newsletter.
I actively participated in a peer group with seven other contractors nationwide.
I read the Wall Street Journal nearly every day and look for articles on upcoming trends in leadership.
Once I had outlined my plan, I quickly found somebody to share it with—not to brag or show my superiority but to help keep me accountable.
It is a simple plan, not very taxing, but I enjoy it. You could say I have made a hobby out of investing in myself, no different than someone who has made a hobby out of going to the gym to work out and stay in shape.
I wouldn’t be where I am today without this plan.
I would be going nowhere without this plan.
So lately, I have challenged some people around me, asking them what they do to invest in themselves. My motive went beyond urging them to have a plan. I wanted to know what they were doing so I could share and gather ideas, creating a community of personal development.
If you have read this far and have a plan you are willing to share, please send it to me. I would love to learn from you. If you don’t want to share it with me, please find somebody to share it with so you can feel accountable to someone for your personal development. Remember, accountability is key to commitment.
If you have read this far and don’t have a plan, I suggest you reflect on what you want to become and develop a plan. (Or accept where you are currently and accept it as your chosen destination).