Growth is a universal principle. Everything in nature grows or it stagnates. Consider the transformation of a butterfly. First of all, it starts as a tiny egg, develops into a caterpillar, and then endures the struggle of breaking free from its chrysalis. That struggle isn’t optional; it’s necessary. Similarly, if someone were to consider helping, and cut the chrysalis open, the butterfly wouldn’t develop the strength needed to fly. The effort of emerging forces fluid into its wings, making them strong enough for flight. Without that challenge, the butterfly remains weak and unable to survive.
Growth Is Usually Uncomfortable
The above story is a great reminder of how uncomfortable growth can be. Likewise, amazing things happen when we embrace growth, and adopt a positive mindset.
Many high performers focus on growth in their business as if it were a sprint; fast, intense, and a desire for results now. But real growth is more like a marathon. Sustained growth takes time, consistency, patience and dedication. That said, sometimes we do experience unexpected bursts of rapid progress, growth spurts. These moments of rapid growth happen when preparation meets opportunity, just like in childhood when we suddenly shoot up in height. However, the key is to keep building strong habits so that when a growth spurt happens, we have foundations strong enough to hold on and go with the ride.
Think about it: A marathon isn’t won in the first mile. It’s about sticking to a plan, keep going despite any fatigue, pain or negative thoughts. Additionally, it takes discipline, consistency and a mindset, set for success. The same applies to personal and business growth.
Sustainable Growth Needs Systems and Habits
Growth is aided by plans, and systems. It’s about doing what is necessary and repeating actions enough times until they become normal and natural habits. Furthermore, as habits are the foundation of all success, systems, and habits are crucial to develop.
If you are already successful in your business, then you might like to heed the advice from Andrew Hoy, the Olympic equestrian, who has competed in eight Olympic Games. This makes him Australia’s most experienced Olympian, and he puts it perfectly:
“At this stage of my success, it’s about focusing on changing ten things by one percent, not one thing by ten percent.” Small, consistent improvements compound over time, leading to great things.
Developing habits by repeating actions is key
Systemising your actions and behaviours are also endorsed by James Clear, author of Atomic Habits.
“You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.”
Growth isn’t about setting massive goals and hoping for the best. Above all, it’s about building habits and systems that keep you moving forward, especially when motivation fades. Furthermore, when we are tired or stressed, we fall back into our old, and often, less than optimal habits. As a result, when you take time to establish good habits and systems, you will naturally default into patterns that serve not sabotage success.
How to Embrace Growth More Easily (and Stay the Course)
1. Pace Yourself
Entrepreneurs often start strong, chasing growth with relentless energy. But burnout is real. Instead of pushing at full speed, create a sustainable rhythm. Push and recovery are key words. We are energy beings, not machines, and it’s important to manage our energy as well as our time. Breaks and moments of recovery with small, consistent steps lead to long-term success.
2. Lean Into Discomfort
Growth happens outside your comfort zone. The best marathon runners embrace the pain; they know it’s part of the process. In business, challenges aren’t roadblocks, they’re proof you’re expanding beyond old limits. Know that discomfort happens before growth. Think of the journey of the butterfly and learn from your struggles and weaknesses.
3. Focus on Small Wins
High achievers often focus on how far they have to go, overlooking their progress. This creates an internal anxiety or stress that creates a relentless drive to keep achieving. A former client, David, was super hard on himself, and lived with a constant inner drive to keep going. He was constantly ‘on’ and stressed.
When I suggested he paused and took a moment to write down three small wins each day, he started to appreciate how far he had come. The result; it was a game changer. Instead of focusing on what he hadn’t done, he focused on what he had achieved. His stress levels dropped, and he felt like he was achieving more. Therefore, take time to reflect on your wins, big or small. It may well increase your progress. At the very least, it will reduce your stress, help you be present and improve your mental health.
4. Build Self-Belief
Every great entrepreneur faces setbacks. The ones who succeed are those who refuse to quit. Accordingly, when things get tough, remind yourself: you’re stronger than you think. Keep putting one foot in front of the other, as action builds self-belief. Additionally, when you acknowledge your successes and tick off your small wins, you build self-belief, a vital ingredient of all great performances. Eliud Kipchoge who famously broke the two hour barrier for a marathon said:
“No human is limited… If you believe in something and put it in your mind and heart, it can be realised.”
Final Thought
The finish line, or the big goal, isn’t reached overnight. Growth is about persistence, habits, and resilience. Furthermore, it’s about focusing on small shifts, appreciating the journey so far, and most of all, showing yourself a bit of kindness along the way. If you are sprinting and burning out, slow down. Build systems and the mindset to go the distance and create long term sustainable success.
Keep moving forward, be ready for a spurt, and wait for the best to unfold!
About the Author
Mandy Napier is a Global High Performance Mindset Coach who dedicates her work to supporting business professionals and entrepreneurs. She helps them fulfil their potential and achieve extraordinary results professionally and personally. Transformations are the norm, and results are guaranteed.
