Take Ownership of Your Own Development

As professionals and as leaders, it is imperative to continuously learn and grow.  Without personal development, a leader may find themselves continually using the same skills and thought processes to address challenges, resulting in stagnancy and frustration.  Without continuous learning and growth, innovation and creativity are slowed or even halted.  Additionally, according to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, growth is a requirement for self-actualization, which describes the fulfillment of one’s potential.

While most professionals and leaders understand the need for professional development and learning, an issue arises when there are limited opportunities to engage in professional learning and growth.  There are many reasons why leaders do not engage in professional development, including the following:

• The organization that employs the professional does not support or encourage professional development
• There is little to no time to engage in professional development opportunities
• There are limited funds to engage in professional development opportunities
• There are few professional development opportunities related to the professional’s job function

​Regardless of the barriers one may face when contemplating professional learning and growth, a successful leader will own their own development.  It is advantageous if the organization that a leader is affiliated with supports and facilitates professional development for its staff; however, if the organization does not, a proactive leader will seek ways to grow themselves professionally and advance their career.  Here are a few strategies for taking ownership of personal development and growth:

1. Search for on-demand, free virtual training related to your profession or field.  There are many free conferences and webinars that are offered by reputable businesses and organizations.
2. Take courses offered by colleges and universities at no cost on open education platforms, also known as massive open online courses (MOOCs).
3. Become a member of a professional organization.  These organizations typically provide professional development and training at low or no cost to members.
4. Use professional social sites such as LinkedIn to engage in on-demand training or webinars at low cost or through membership.
5. Many professional endorsements and certificates only require an exam to earn them.  Find free or low cost study materials, then take an exam to receive an endorsement or certification.
6. Find a coach or a mentor.
7. Consider enrolling in a graduate program to earn a certificate or a degree.

There are three primary goals for seeking professional development: (1) personal growth; (2) job efficacy; and (3) career advancement.  Taking ownership of your professional growth and development will result in personal fulfillment, the ability to meet and exceed expectations in one’s current role, and preparation for the next career phase.