From Aspiration to Achievement: How to Cultivate Growth on Your Leadership Journey

When I think about growth, two pivotal moments in my life immediately come to mind. The first was my first year in my corporate job—a year filled with uncertainty, where every challenge seemed insurmountable, and I constantly questioned my abilities. I was learning the ropes, trying to prove myself, and struggling to find my place in an environment where success was measured by metrics I barely understood. Growth felt like something distant and unattainable.

The second moment came years later, when I made the decision to leave that corporate world behind and step into the unknown world of entrepreneurship. That leap was terrifying—a mix of excitement and deep fear, not knowing if I would sink or swim. Unlike my corporate beginnings, this journey was no longer about proving myself to others but about pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and trusting that I had the strength and resilience to build something from the ground up.

In both of these experiences, I learned that growth isn’t a linear path—it’s messy, uncomfortable, and at times, overwhelming. But it’s in those moments of discomfort that we truly stretch ourselves and become more than we ever thought possible. Growth is not just about the successes; it’s about the journey, the risks, and the courage to keep moving forward, even when the road ahead is unclear.

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One of the books that helped me through that period was “Mindset” by Carol Dweck. Dweck’s work on the growth mindset reshaped how I approached both business and personal development, reinforcing that growth is not just about reaching new heights, but about embracing the journey itself. A recent read that I recommend is "Power Moves" by Sarah Jakes Roberts which is a motivational guide that encourages women to embrace their potential and make bold decisions to transform their lives. 

1. Embrace a Growth Mindset

The most important lesson I’ve learned about growth is that it starts with mindset. A growth mindset allows you to see challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles. Early in my entrepreneurial journey, I encountered setbacks, but Dweck’s book reminded me that each setback was a stepping stone to something greater.

2. Continuous Learning is Essential

In “The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership” by John C. Maxwell, Maxwell talks about the "Law of Process"—that leadership and growth are continuous. There is no point where we stop learning. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or already in a leadership role, you must commit to lifelong learning. That’s why, even after leaving corporate, I pursued my passion for interior design and expanded my skill set and again, when I went into furniture manufacturing or when I started my restaurant - each turn had a learning curve - some were steeper than others, but all were necessary for my growth and development. 

3. Take Calculated Risks

Growth often requires stepping into the unknown. Whether you’re aspiring to a leadership position or launching a new venture, calculated risks are necessary. As I transitioned from brand strategist to business owner, I took many risks—some successful, others not—but each taught me invaluable lessons. Growth is not about always getting it right; it’s about being willing to take the leap.

Remember this: Growth isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Commit to continuous learning, embrace challenges, and have the courage to take the risks necessary to achieve your potential. Remember that "Whether you think you can or think you can't, you're right”, Henry Ford.

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