We think of growth as the pursuit of more—more profit, more clients, more milestones. It built the world we have today. And guess what? There is no real myth here: we are unhappy as a society. We are broken. Evidence points to climate, mental health, geopolitical issues, and economics as areas where we need to challenge our old models. We are at an inflection point. It's time to think differently about how to build a more intentional society.
I took the past quarter and embraced an inward focus. It was not the ideal time, but my son had a few health issues to deal with, and we were going through the evolution of our family, elevating my kid's father to former husband and forever co-parent. I needed to pause and stop the cycle to be present at this time.
I realized I had forgotten what it felt like to wake up with joy and to want to do something meaningful with my time on this planet.
I spent time in nature with my children in Northern CT, traveled home to Guatemala, and enjoyed the Hamptons at my mentor John's house. We played in the woods, hiked a waterfall at the base of a volcano, swam in the ocean, and focused our energy collectively. I fell in love with the idea of possibility of what life could offer. We found our reset.
This period shifted those unhealthy narratives, and I found my inner strength. I am returning to work this fall rejuvenated and with perspective. I am ready to give that positivity to our community and turn it outward.
Chapter 5: The next iteration of this life and my journey. This article is my blueprint for why I am building Superstruct.
Rethinking Growth in the Modern Era
From my experience in business building and investing, this intentional pause this summer, and over my lifetime, growth is no longer only about asset and revenue accumulation. It is about the evolution of society and even our humanity. It is time to rethink our approach, which means identifying and abandoning common-held myths about growth.
Growth myths prevent businesses and people from realizing their full potential. Unlocking generational progress requires debunking these myths and embracing a more holistic, integrated vision of growth.
Traditional models are rooted in industrial-age thinking and often emphasize efficiency and output at the expense of emotional and mental well-being. This approach is insufficient and sometimes even counterproductive in today's interconnected and fast-paced environment.
The notion that working longer hours equals more productivity is bullshit, frankly, it is outdated, old thinking. While this might have been true in an era where physical presence was critical, today, we demand a more integrated approach. Our focus should be on how to solve for critical needs of the future and how we can efficiently do it. Working with your 'back' and not your brain is why we continue to devolve as a society into burnout. Innovation often stems from balance and well-being, emotional resilience, and mental clarity.
The modern workforce is about purpose. Financial opportunity is one outcome. Businesses and individuals sticking to outdated growth paradigms will find themselves misaligned with these emerging values, leading to stagnation rather than progression. Redefining growth means integrating these aspects into our goals and strategies.
We are reevaluating and redefining growth by addressing 4 key challenges:
Misalignment with Current Realities:
↳ Internal barriers often hinder progress more than external ones. Self-sabotage is real.
The Lure of Short-Term Gratification:
↳ Choosing long-term fulfillment over temporary satisfaction is critical.
The Role of Intuition:
↳Intuition is a key driver of both personal and professional success.
Building an Ecosystem of Growth:
↳Sustainable growth flourishes in a supportive and interconnected network.
Each of the 4 topics form a holistic approach to growth, transcending outdated models and embraces a more integrated, sustainable future.
#1 Misalignment with Current Realities:
Breaking Free from Industrial-Era Models
The linear career path—once a gold standard—has become an outdated myth. In the past, progression meant climbing the corporate ladder rung by rung. Growth is no longer simply about moving up; it's about expanding in multiple dimensions—professionally, personally, and communally – and interlocking it all together.
We need to break free from old narratives. Have you ever considered a typical annual review cycle? It is often ineffective. Instead, continuous feedback, real-time learning opportunities, crucial conversations met with kindness, and personal resonance should guide development. Organizations are pioneering this shift by operating without traditional managers or strict rules, entrusting employees to steer their career paths autonomously.
This self-managed approach has challenges. It holds individuals accountable and forces them to identify their needs and barriers to growth proactively. Rather than relying solely on formal training sessions—often expensive and geographically inconvenient—people and businesses must find workarounds. Look at Skool and the success of Coursera. Education is evolving. This could involve leveraging online resources, peer-to-peer learning, or even simple reflective practices.
The Cyclical Nature of Growth Myths
Old frameworks may offer comfort, but they inherently limit broader potential. Instead, focusing on holistic and interconnected growth—where personal well-being, professional development, and emotional intelligence intersect—can pave the way for a more sustainable and fulfilling future.
Aligning Growth with Emotional and Mental Well-being
In my nearly 3 decades of experience, I found a vital truth: real growth is as much about emotional and mental well-being as it is about hitting metrics or achieving milestones. In today's interconnected world, where burnout and stress are rampant, integrating emotional and mental health into the growth equation is essential. You will do better. Your team will accelerate faster.
When you align growth with your well-being, you operate from a place of holistic strength—acknowledging your mental limits, listening to your intuition, and recognizing when to pause. Ignoring these signals can lead to diminished returns, not just in your personal life, but also in professional settings. Employers who facilitate and support employee growth—recognizing that each staff member's emotional health is pivotal—often see increased productivity within their teams. Loyalty is an outcome with this approach.
Consider the power of having a personal coach or mentor who prioritizes your emotional well-being as part of your growth strategy. This tailored guidance helps you identify professional goals and address personal barriers that could hinder your progress. When emotional and mental well-being is regarded as central to growth, every step forward feels more sustainable and rewarding.
Growth isn't a linear journey marked by constant forward motion. Real growth involves setbacks, pauses, and recalibrations. MicroPivots. These phases are not failures but important parts of the process. Taking intentional breaks helps rejuvenate your mental and emotional resources, allowing you to return to your goals with renewed vigor and clarity.
Ultimately, aligning growth with emotional and mental well-being entails creating an environment where you can thrive. Whether this means building a supportive community, seeking accountability partners, or simply acknowledging your own needs, this integrated approach paves the way for more profound, long-lasting growth. Instead of just surviving under pressure, you'll be flourishing in harmony with your true self.
Recognizing and Breaking the Sabotage Cycle
In many cases, our behavioral patterns serve as significant roadblocks to growth. We often get in our way without even realizing it. I will take a moment to be vulnerable and honest. When I successfully clinch a deal, I sometimes struggle with executing every following step. The dopamine of the initial chase is over, and the follow-through wanes. It is the self-sabotage I am acutely aware of and work on. This area causes me discomfort, and that is my secret. When I find discomfort, I know it is the area I must focus on to grow. How do I push through? I have a reason why I want to grow: I have a grand vision for my life. I tap into that vision and persist through the friction of follow-through.
Recognizing that self-sabotage is frequently rooted in comfort zones and fears is crucial. The comfort of familiarity can be deceptive, luring us into repeating old habits that derail our growth. To counter this, begin by identifying specific behaviors that consistently undermine your progress. Acknowledging these patterns is the first step toward change, whether it's procrastination, over-committing, or avoiding challenging tasks.
Once you've identified these self-sabotaging behaviors or discomfort, the next move is to actively disrupt the cycle. One effective method is to create what Tony Robbins calls a "state-change." If we have a mental or emotional resistance to doing what needs doing, then we can shift our physical state to change our psycho-somatic state. Some simple ones are: taking a brisk walk, close our eyes and face the sun, do a five-minute breathing exercise. If you are feeling very stuck, consider something to pivot like a cold shower, a workout, or even a therapy session. Do these with the intention of moving through the discomfort to take action.
A critical aspect of identifying self-sabotage is simply awareness cultivated through mindful practice. Train yourself to notice when you're slipping back into old habits. Utilize tools like journaling or digital reminders to keep track of your progress and setbacks. This ongoing self-monitoring helps solidify new, productive habits while weakening the hold of old, harmful ones. You might even consider rewarding yourself afterwards or simply celebrating that you tackled a challenge and claimed a small victory.
Be patient and understanding with yourself. Change doesn't happen overnight. It requires consistent effort and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about your behaviors. By maintaining a conscientious approach, you can gradually break free from the sabotage cycle and pave the way for sustainable growth.
#2 The Lure of Short-term Gratification: Choosing long-term fulfillment over temporary satisfaction is critical.
Escaping the Trap of Short-Term Gratification
The allure of short-term gratification is powerful and pervasive. It's easy to get caught up in the cycle of seeking immediate pleasure, whether it's through social media scrolling, binge-watching shows, or indulging in unhealthy snacks. These activities provide a quick dopamine hit, giving us that temporary feeling of satisfaction. However, this quick fix often comes at the cost of long-term growth and achievement.
Consider this: whenever you choose a momentary delight over a meaningful progress step, you're postponing your long-term goals. The cycle repeats itself until breaking free seems almost insurmountable. The comfort of the now overshadows the potential of the future, and growth becomes stagnant.
The allure of temporary pleasure can divert attention from the harder, more worthwhile tasks that pave the way for substantial growth. Real growth demands pushing past these easy choices to embrace more meaningful, long-term endeavors. Ingrained habits, such as choosing to go for your morning sun walk despite wanting to hit the snooze, illustrate the challenge of navigating comfort versus necessary discomfort for growth.
Consider replacing small, immediate rewards with actions that contribute to a larger goal. For example, instead of indulging in a high-calorie treat after completing a minor task, reward yourself with something that aligns with your long-term wellness goals, like a refreshing walk, a phone call with a supportive friend, an educational YouTube video, or a healthy snack.
Choosing Long-Term Satisfaction:
The key lies in shifting your focus from immediate pleasure to future fulfillment. This change doesn't happen overnight; it requires conscious effort and a gradual shift in mindset. Think of it as an investment: the more you contribute to your long-term objectives, the more rewarding and satisfying your achievements will be.
What you consume and do today has a profound effect on tomorrow. Remember that. Think far enough ahead that ample water is required to eliminate toxins; high-density nutritious foods keep your gut healthy today and tomorrow. Sweating it on the trail or treadmill will clear your mind and release tension. Not drinking alcohol will enable your body to rest and have quality sleep truly. Observing babies is so helpful to watch this cycle. If they don't nap, the crying never ends. If they don't eat, they have terrible sleep. It's all a cycle.
Breaking free from the cycle of temporary satisfaction demands self-awareness and discipline. Recognize when you're opting for easy dopamine hits and pause to consider how these choices impact your overarching goals. In the end, sustainable growth is a marathon, not a sprint—it's about consistent, purposeful actions that build momentum over time.
#3 The Role of Intuition:
Intuition is a key driver of both personal and professional success.
The Role of Intuition in Personal and Professional Growth
Trusting your intuition can be a powerful catalyst for growth. Intuition is that gut feeling, often overlooked, that guides you in discerning what's best for your personal and professional progression. This internal radar picks up on subtleties and nudges you toward decisions aligned with your true self and long-term aspirations.
Another vulnerable share: There have been multiple times when I agreed to activities that I knew I didn't want to do; I knew I needed rest. This led to breakdowns in my health and even in some relationships. It was a hard lesson to learn, but it was one that I did not need to repeat. Ignoring my intuitive signals leads to burnout, poor decision-making, and, ultimately, stalled growth.
So, how can you reconnect with your intuition and let it guide your growth journey? Start by paying close attention to how you feel when making decisions. Do emotions like excitement, anxiety, or dread show up? These can be indicators of what your intuition is trying to tell you. Reflect regularly through journaling or mindfulness practices, which help tune into those gut feelings more clearly.
Moreover, permit yourself to pause. In our fast-paced world, taking time to reflect can seem counterproductive, but it's often necessary for recalibrating your internal compass. When faced with significant choices, allow yourself space to consider all aspects rather than jumping to conclusions. This pause can make a world of difference in ensuring your decisions are in harmony with your growth vision.
"If it's a 'gut feeling,' lean into it. It means your whole body is uneasy." – Rache Brand
Incorporating intuition into your growth strategy also means being comfortable with discomfort. Intuition might urge you to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, or change course when something doesn't feel right. Embrace these moments as opportunities for real growth, even if they initially provoke uncertainty or fear.
By actively listening to and acting on your intuition, you build a stronger relationship with your inner self, fostering both personal and professional growth. Intuition isn't just a mystical concept; it's a practical tool for navigating the complexities of life and work. Learning to trust can not only streamline your growth process but also make it more aligned with your authentic self. So next time your gut speaks, listen—and act on it. It might just be the key to unlocking your next level of growth.
Practical Tips for Tuning into Your Intuition
Understanding and embracing your intuition can be a game-changer when it comes to breaking through growth myths. Here are some practical tips to help you tune into your intuition:
Make Time for Reflection: Set aside dedicated time each day for introspection. This could include meditation, journaling, or simply sitting quietly. Reflection helps to clear your mind and allows your inner voice to be heard more clearly.
Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness activities such as yoga or deep-breathing exercises to stay present and aware. These practices can help you become more attuned to your inner signals.
Follow Your Gut Feelings: When making decisions, notice your immediate, gut-level reactions. Often, your first instinct is worth paying attention to, even if it doesn't align with logical reasoning.
Distinguish Intuition from Fear: Learn to differentiate between intuition and fear. Intuition feels calm and confident, while fear often feels agitated and anxious. Practicing this distinction will help you trust your intuitive insights.
Seek Solitude: Spend time alone, away from distractions and external influences. Solitude enables you to connect deeply with your inner thoughts and feelings, fostering a stronger intuitive sense.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to bodily sensations—your body often signals what your rational mind might overlook. Notice if you feel tense or relaxed, energized or drained, when considering different options.
Document Your Insights: Keep a journal of intuitive hits and their outcomes. Over time, this practice will help you recognize patterns and build trust in your intuitive abilities.
Embrace Creativity: Engage in creative activities like drawing, writing, or music. Creativity taps into the subconscious, allowing intuitive thoughts to surface more easily.
By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can strengthen your intuition and leverage it as a powerful tool for achieving sustainable growth. Trusting your gut will help you navigate life's complexities and steer you toward more meaningful and fulfilling paths.
#4 Building an Ecosystem of Growth: Sustainable growth flourishes in a supportive and interconnected network.
The Myth of Going It Alone
One of the most entrenched myths about growth is the notion that you must go it alone to succeed. This belief is pervasive in both personal and professional development realms, often celebrated in stories of the lone hero overcoming insurmountable odds. I call bull. True growth is rarely a solitary journey.
So why do so many hold to the idea that growth must be a solo endeavor? It could be due to the glorification of independence in our culture, where asking for help is sometimes perceived as a weakness. Yet, no person is an island. Collaborative growth leverages the collective strength, wisdom, and experience of a group, multiplying potential outcomes.
Accountability partners can be transformative. These individuals hold you to your commitments, push you to go beyond your comfort zone, and offer feedback that may be uncomfortable but necessary.
Harnessing the Power of Accountability Partners
My journey has been a success story so far only because I tap into the transformative power of strategic communities and networking. I have people around me who point out my blind spots and urge me to reconsider my choices. From my business coach and personal mentor to my close circle of girlfriends, I lean into my people.
Think of accountability partners as your growth mirrors. They reflect your actions to you, often revealing patterns you might otherwise miss. This feedback loop is vital for identifying what works, what needs adjustment, and where you're holding yourself back.
Furthermore, this communal aspect of accountability shifts the focus from individual to collective progress. When you engage with a community that values growth, you're part of a dynamic ecosystem where everyone benefits from shared experiences and collective wisdom.
The key takeaway here is that isolation can be a growth inhibitor, while accountability can act as a powerful catalyst. So, proactively seek out accountability partners and communities that align with your growth objectives. In doing so, you'll find that the journey toward meaningful, sustainable growth becomes less daunting and significantly more enriching.
Building Strategic Communities for Growth
Build strategic communities to create ecosystems of accountability where growth can flourish. To foster growth communities, you need to be intentional about the people you surround yourself with and the kind of relationships you nurture.
Identify Your Needs: Start by pinpointing the areas in your life or business where you seek growth. Are you looking for mentorship, accountability, motivation, or new opportunities? Understanding these needs helps you identify the right people to connect with.
Seek Diverse Perspectives: A community of like-minded individuals is valuable, but don't shy away from diverse perspectives. Different viewpoints can challenge your thinking, expose you to new ideas, and ultimately fuel your growth.
Cultivate Genuine Relationships: The foundation of any strategic community is genuine interest and mutual respect. Engage with people not just for what they can offer but for the value of the relationship itself. This authenticity fosters deep, meaningful connections that are more likely to support your long-term growth.
Leverage Technology: In today's interconnected world, building a strategic community isn't confined to your local area. Utilize social media platforms, online forums, and virtual events to connect with people globally. These digital tools can help you find and sustain valuable relationships that might be geographically dispersed.
Establish Clear Communication: Open and honest communication is key to maintaining any community. Be clear about your expectations and encourage others to express theirs. This transparency helps align goals and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Offer and Seek Accountability: Reciprocal accountability is crucial. Commit to holding your community members accountable for their growth targets, and ask them to do the same for you. Regular check-ins, progress updates, and constructive feedback can keep everyone on track.
Celebrate Milestones: Remember to celebrate wins, no matter how small. Recognizing achievements within your community fosters a positive, motivating environment. It also strengthens the bonds between community members, making the community more resilient and cohesive.
Remember, building a strategic community for growth means being decisive—it is about cutting out draining relationships as much as it is about cultivating nourishing ones. Building a growth community requires continual learning, attentive adaptation, and clear and consistent communication. You have the power to create a robust support system that propels you and your people toward sustainable and meaningful growth.
Extend Your Growth Timeline to Be Generational
Consider how oak trees grow. They do not shoot up overnight but instead take decades to reach maturity, gradually developing strong roots and expansive canopies. These same trees interconnect with others to form a forest that will support wildlife, the climate, and humanity for multiple future generations. How can we embody the spirit of the Oak Tree in our growth?
The generational growth perspective fundamentally changes how you set goals and measure success. Instead of fixating on quarterly profits or annual milestones, think about what you want to achieve over the next decade and even a century beyond. This shift in perspective can lead to more meaningful and thoughtful decision-making, where each step is part of a larger, cohesive plan aimed at long-term benefits.
A generational timeline fosters a sense of responsibility toward future generations. As a business leader, you're grooming the next wave of leaders; as a parent, you're instilling essential values in your children and future grandchildren. Understanding growth as a lifetime achievement rather than a sprint helps you prepare for a future beyond your lifetime. Create a legacy that future generations can build upon, ensuring they inherit a better society, a safer climate, and more inclusive communities.
Creating a generational growth timeline transforms not just how you approach your goals, but also how you deal with obstacles. Patience, persistence, and long-term vision become your allies, guiding you through the ups and downs of the growth journey. This holistic approach lays the groundwork for a richer, more resilient growth trajectory that benefits both you and those who will follow in your footsteps.
Redefining Growth for the Future
Break free from outdated growth myths to navigate today's complex and interconnected world. Embrace the holistic growth approach to propel yourself, your business, and your community into the future. Creating the shift enhances emotional and mental well-being and paves the way for sustainable and meaningful progress.
By challenging your assumptions about growth, you open yourself up to new perspectives and opportunities. It's crucial to rethink how you measure success—not just by conventional metrics like profit or milestones, but by considering the quality of your journey and the depth of your personal and professional growth. Remember, real progress comes from a balanced mix of intuition, community support, and long-term thinking.
As you move forward, dare to challenge the status quo. Encourage yourself and those around you to look beyond temporary fixes and focus on creating environments that nurture true generational growth. The abundant future lies in breaking past limiting growth myths and fostering a culture of continuous, holistic development.
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