How much time did you invest in professional development last year?
Really, think about that. I know as part of my Individual Development Plan, or IDP – I listed at least three measurable activities that I could point to and say – “Look at me, I’m better that I was!”
Do you work for a company like that? One that requires annual goals, personal development, continuing education, networking events? Honestly, most mid to large employers do. And I think it’s a good thing. Being able to step away from the day to day business to learn and grow is important. Have you heard “Sharpen the Saw”?
Stephen Covey says that Sharpen the Saw means preserving and enhancing the greatest asset you have–you. It means having a balanced program for self-renewal in the four areas of your life: physical, social/emotional, mental, and spiritual.
Here is my version of the story:
A new lumberjack starts with a crew. He’s excited and ready to get to work. The first day is amazing. He can’t be stopped and at cuts down 50 trees. The boss is impressed, nobody does that many. The second day he cuts 30 trees. Still a good effort and his boss is still pleased. The next day he does only 10 trees. The boss goes to him and says, “The first day you did 50, the second 30, but today only 10. What’s wrong?”
“I don’t know, I feel like I’m working just as hard but I get slower every tree I cut,” said the lumberjack.
“I see. Well, let me ask you this. When was the last time you sharpened your saw?”
I know that’s not Mr. Covey’s story – but’s close. I like mine better. Companies love this story because it’s true. You have to sharpen your saw to remain effective at work.
So let me ask you something. When did you sharpen your saw for your family? I know I’m guilty of ignoring that most important part of my life.
Every year I do this IDP, set annual goals, read books, shadow others, mentor people, go to conferences and attend training. Every year I spend significant time getting better at my job. But I don’t spend enough time getting better at my real job- being a father and husband. Truthfully, some days I suck at it. ALOT.
So- here’s what I was thinking. I’ll bet that a lot of what we learn and practice to be successful at work COULD transfer to parenting and family life. You think that’s a stretch? I think it just might work.
Through a series of posts, I’ll take a practice from a corporate job and I’ll see how we can bend, flex and innovate it into a way to enhance family. Some I’ve tried, some I haven’t. I’ll tag them #daddydevelopment so we can keep a running list.
Do you have one you’d like me to investigate? You have ideas? Want to collaborate? Follow me, comment, share and reach out. I want this to be real and valuable. If you have tips and tricks that fit this mold, hashtag #daddydevelopment for mentions and follows.
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Twitter: @daddydevelop
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