Self-Improving
“If you want to improve the team, improve yourself.” – John Maxwell
In his book The 17 Essential Qualities of a Team Player, John Maxwell says that too often we suffer from “destination disease.” We do just enough to arrive and then we stop. We get too busy looking for a quick fix when we really need to be looking at fitness. When we find and apply the quick fix, we stop when the pressure is relieved. But when we look towards fitness, we keep doing what we should no matter what the circumstances.
To become self-improving:
- Become Highly Teachable – Let go of your pride and become a veracious learner. Take a class, take lessons, and put yourself in positions where you have opportunities to learn. Instead of talking when someone asks a question, let someone else answer and listen to their response.
- Plan Your Progress – Plan your progress in two areas. First, plan what you want to learn and how you will go about it. Second, find ways to work what you’re learning into everyday happenings.
- Value Self-Improvement over Self-Promotion – “Let instruction and knowledge mean more to you than silver or finest gold. Wisdom is worth more than precious jewels or anything else you desire.” – King Solomon
Improve yourself – it might be just what your team needs!