Growing into the Future
From our Point of View
So far, we have talked a lot about how we got to where we are (the past) and how we feel about it (the present). Now we want to move forward, into the future. But, we do not want to just go into the future, we want to grow into the future.
For us, that means finding passion in the things we do every day while discovering who we are — outside of our careers.
Before we get too far into that, first we want to dive deeper into the idea of growth. Changing our circumstances requires personal growth and just like any kind of physical growth (like the kind a plant or teen experiences), personal growth happens in stages. We believe growth is more successful when it is intentional. Sure, things will eventually change over time regardless of how much thought we put into it, but if we are not intentional with our growth, we may not end up where (or who) we want to be. This intentionality is why we developed the REAR method, a mindful approach to personal growth. It involves Reflecting, Evaluating, Anticipating, and Realizing. Approaching personal growth in this way does not result in an overnight personal “growth spurt.” It is slow by design — each stage requires thoughtfulness. It does not guarantee success or an easy path forward, but it does keep us from making rash decisions with unintended consequences. We have more control over our circumstances than we give ourselves credit for, we just have to be mindful of our actions along the way.
Jourdan: “I was recently preparing my raised bed for planting (hello, Spring!) and noticed a plaque on the side that read “boldly growing.” I absolutely love this statement. Like the vegetables in my garden, I am boldly growing!”
Are you ready for personal growth? Put the REAR method into practice, starting with reflecting on your job, your relationships, where you live, how you spend your free time, your health, and any other areas of your life that are important to you. Next, sit with your feelings and evaluate how you feel about your current circumstances in each area. Are there any changes you would like to make? If so, anticipate what it would look like to make those changes. Have brainstorming sessions on your own or discuss with someone you trust. Dare we say, put pen to paper? 😉 Think of this as the planning phase. Then, realize the vision you have for yourself. Make your vision a reality! Most importantly, do it with confidence, knowing that you are making mindful decisions and living with intention.
From others’ Point of View
Does living intentionally sound appealing to you, but you want to know more? We have put together a list of great resources for you to explore what intentional living is all about:
From a Biblical Point of View
We are encouraged to constantly strive to be more like Jesus — in other words, always strive to be a better person. Sounds a lot like personal growth and self-improvement, does it not? The Bible provides wisdom on these topics, including the benefits of living intentionally and planning ahead:
The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.
– Proverbs 21:5
Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.
– Proverbs 16:3
So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world.
– 1 Peter 1:13
“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’
– Luke 14:28-30
It is important to remember in our pursuit for personal growth that we do not earn God’s favor through good works, but we are called to do good. There is a subtle difference that looks something like humility and selflessness. In our growth, we should humbly leave room for what God has planned for us in the future by continually seeking guidance through prayer and by being open to unexpected changes that He may have for us along the way.
