Personal development and improving your performance as a supervisor go hand in hand. But what exactly is personal development? It's the continual process of assessing your goals and values while working to improve the qualities and skills involved.
Focusing on improving personal development can result in higher confidence. When you carry that confidence into the workplace, you can better adapt to any situation. Personal development can have a direct impact on your professional growth.
If you haven't considered focusing on your personal development, don't worry. We've developed five tips to help you get started:
1. Seek Feedback
When you seek feedback about your performance, be prepared to listen. Ensure you are actively listening to what is said. This information is invaluable and provides personal and professional development opportunities. Once you listen to the feedback - whether it's positive or negative, spend some time analyzing that information and determining a solution to reach a better outcome. We can all improve by understanding how those who work alongside us perceive us.
2. Look for Mentoring/Shadowing Opportunities
Having a mentor is important because it provides you with learning opportunities and helps you expand your network. If you aren't already working with a mentor, seek opportunities to work alongside someone.
Mentors help encourage growth and accountability. Good mentors should also be good listeners. You want to develop a meaningful relationship built on trust and encouragement. Working with a mentor can help you gain new perspectives, provide a sense of fulfillment, increase confidence, and provide additional learning opportunities.
3. Create/Revise Your Growth Plan
If you don't have a growth plan, you should work on creating one. If you do have a plan, check it routinely and make updates where needed. Regularly updating your plan helps you move forward and hold yourself accountable. Goal setting is critical to your growth plan, but remember that goals should be realistic and achievable.
4. Continuous Learning
We all must make time for additional learning. While the amount of time spent on education will vary from one person to the next, make sure that you have this scheduled and built into your growth plan. Continuous learning can come in many forms: podcasts, books, workshops, trade organizations, films, and blogs. If you need help finding continuous learning opportunities, ask those around you. Talk with your mentor, visit online training colleges or universities, or utilize social networking. Pursuing further education and learning opportunities will lead to more personal and professional growth.
5. Step Outside Your Wheelhouse
Many of us fear the unknown, but stepping outside your bubble is okay. You can only overcome your fears by focusing on improving your personal development. Fear will keep you from pursuing your dreams and achieving your goals. For instance, if you are terrified of public speaking, you should find opportunities that will allow you to either practice speaking in front of others. You could also take a communications class. While practice can seem daunting, it's the only way to improve.
Personal development should be a continuous process. Personal development can lead to a more fulfilled and happier life where your dreams and aspirations can come true. Utilize the tips in this blog and start motivating yourself today.
