Several years ago, I attended an event with John Maxwell, where he shared a story that profoundly impacted my life. He spoke about his early 20s, when his mentor asked him a simple but powerful question:
“What is your plan for growth?”
When John admitted he didn’t have one, his mentor responded,
“Growth is not an automatic process. If you’re going to grow, then you’ll have to do so intentionally.”
Those words stung.
I wanted to grow—in my faith, my relationships, my business—but if I was honest, I didn’t have a real plan. I had ideas and vague intentions, but no concrete roadmap. By not having a written plan, I was hoping growth would somehow just “happen.” And while it did to some degree, it wasn’t nearly as fast or intentional as I desired.
That moment became a turning point. I came home from the event, determined to change. I started praying, journaling, and researching. During this process, I came across a game-changing quote by Earl Nightingale:
“If a person will spend ONE hour a day on the same subject for FIVE years, that person will be an expert on that subject.”
I knew I needed a focused and intentional plan for my personal growth. Here’s the process I followed to create it, and how you can do the same.
Step 1: Identify Your KEY Areas
What are the KEY areas where you want to grow in the next 12 months? While it’s tempting to focus on everything, that approach often leads to overwhelm and burnout. Instead, choose 1-4 areas that are most important to you.
These could include:
- Leadership
- Business
- Health
- Spiritual growth
- Purpose
- Marriage
- Family
- Mindset
- Hobbies or creative passions
Think about the areas of your life that matter most to your long-term vision. These are your KEY areas. Write them down.
Step 2: Define Success
Now, imagine yourself one year from now. You’ve invested time and energy into these areas—how have you grown?
Ask yourself:
- What do I hope to have learned?
- How will I show up differently for my family, team, or customers?
- What specific skills or habits will I have mastered?
Getting crystal clear on what success looks like for each area will help you stay motivated and focused throughout the year.
Step 3: Find Your Resources
Growth doesn’t happen in isolation. Once you’ve identified your KEY areas, gather the resources you’ll need. Consider:
- Books: What titles will inspire and equip you?
- Podcasts: Which voices will encourage consistent learning?
- Courses or conferences: What events align with your growth areas?
- Mentors: Who could guide you in this season?
Pro Tip: Create a “Growth Menu.” List the exact books, podcasts, and trainings you plan to dive into. This will keep you focused and prevent you from being distracted by shiny opportunities that don’t align with your goals.
Step 4: Schedule Your Growth Time
Here’s the hard truth: If it’s not scheduled, it likely won’t happen.
Decide how much time you’ll dedicate to personal growth each week and block it on your calendar. Whether it’s 30 minutes a day or an hour three times a week, treat it like a non-negotiable appointment with yourself.
Consider:
- Morning reading sessions
- Listening to podcasts during your commute
- Evening journaling or reflection time
Life will inevitably get busy, but if you’re serious about growth, this commitment must take priority.
Step 5: Write Your Plan
Finally, put it all together in a written plan. Document your:
- KEY areas
- Success definitions
- Resources
- Growth schedule
Having a written plan not only clarifies your focus but also serves as a powerful reminder of your commitment.
Free Resource: Your Personal Growth Plan Template
Want to take your personal growth to the next level? I’ve created a Personal Growth Plan Template to help you map out your KEY areas, define success, and create a clear, actionable plan.
This free, printable worksheet will guide you step by step, ensuring you stay intentional and focused throughout the year.
📥CLICK HERE to Download your Personal Growth Plan Template now!
Let’s make this your best year of growth yet!
Bonus Tips for Staying Consistent
- Track Your Progress: Keep a journal to reflect on what you’re learning and how you’re applying it.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Growth is a journey. Acknowledge and celebrate milestones along the way.
- Adjust as Needed: Life changes—so can your plan. Revisit and refine it quarterly to ensure it’s still aligned with your goals.
Why This Matters
In the first six weeks of working my personal growth plan, I saw more progress than I had in years. The difference wasn’t luck—it was intentionality. When you create a clear plan and commit to it, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.
Your Turn: Let’s Dream Together
What is one KEY area you want to focus on in the next 12 months?
Why is this area important to you?
Share in the comments below—I’d love to cheer you on!
