By: Cloe Caron
In a world filled with endless demands and responsibilities, it's easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget one essential aspect of success—investing in yourself.
In this blog, we'll explore the transformative journey from I have enough with my work to I invest in my own growth which is the 5th key of my Dare to Empower 5-Key Model.
Let's delve into the mindset shifts, the importance of putting yourself first, and the incredible benefits of this investment.
Mindset Shifts
Invest in Yourself First
When it comes to personal and professional growth, my golden rule is to invest in yourself first. It means dedicating time, money, and resources to improve your present and future life. You cannot, and should not, invest all your professional time in accomplishing tasks. You must give yourself time to invest in yourself too.
Here's the good news: If you're reading this blog, you're already on the path to investing in yourself. You've taken a critical step towards personal growth and empowerment. Many individuals neglect this investment, citing a lack of time. But not you. As you go through this journey, be intentional as if your life depends on it. This commitment is how you'll reap the rewards of your investment.
Investing in yourself isn't always easy, but it's essential and achievable. To become leaders, we must continually introspect, identify areas for improvement, and commit to personal growth. There's always something to learn, and growth is an ongoing process.
Why Invest in Yourself?
Now, let's ponder why investing in yourself is crucial. Consider how personal growth can benefit you, your organization, your business, and your market. What mindset changes do you need to embrace? In what areas should you direct more attention and intention to become the empowered leader you aspire to be?
Imagine you're faced with the question: "Where do you need to spend your time at work to have more time for yourself?" This is where the 80/20 rule comes into play. By strategically investing in yourself, you can enhance your value without increasing your workload. Therefore, I propose that 20% of your time be invested in your development.
It may seem like a lot but investing in yourself is not about adding more to your plate; it's about being strategic in your growth journey. It's about aligning your personal and professional development so that you can shine even brighter in your leadership role.
Conclusion
Roy T. Bennett once said, "There is no more profitable investment than investing in yourself." By taking this step towards personal growth and empowerment, you're on the path to becoming the best version of yourself. You're not just investing in you; you're investing in your ability to serve those around you more effectively.
Embrace the journey of self-investment, and watch how it transforms your life, your career, and your impact on the world.
You can learn more about the Invest in Yourself key or the other 4 keys for self-empowerment, in Cloé’s latest book, Dare to Empower, Women in the Lead.