Weekly Leadership Lifter

August 10, 2023

Years ago I was blessed to spend some time with leadership expert John Maxwell. He was speaking at a Leadership Conference in Kansas City. Immediately following his presentation, I made my way through the crowd to the front of the auditorium where he was signing books and taking pictures. I asked him, "John could I pay you $100 to go out to lunch with me? I want to learn more and be a better leader for our church family."

John graciously agreed and together we found a quiet room to have lunch together eating sub sandwiches. He said so many great things that afternoon, but the thing that really stuck out to me was a question he asked me.

"Dave, can I see your PERSONAL GROWTH PLAN?" I was a little confused, and seeing the look on my face he continued, "What are you doing EVERYDAY to grow, learn, and improve your skills?" Sadly, I didn't have one, but from that moment on I was going to make sure I did!


"Growth is the great separator between those who succeed and those who do not. When I see a person beginning to separate themselves from the pack, it's almost always due to personal growth."
— John Maxwell

"We can't become what we need to be by remaining what we are."
— Oprah Winfrey


Personal growth never happens accidentally. It happens on purpose, and as the result of a series of important decisions.

Here are a few decisions to help get you started on the right track:

  1. Make a commitment to change. — The very idea of growth implies not staying where you are.
  2. Focus on your strengths. — Instead of becoming preoccupied with your weaknesses, focus on what you do well and strive to excel in those areas.
  3. Put yourself in a growth environment. — You can’t grow in an environment that doesn't sustain life. Make it a point to be around people and experiences that challenge you and bring out the best in you.
  4. Learn to enjoy the journey. — Keep in mind that growth is a lifelong process, not a one-time event. You’ll never arrive or reach the point where there is nothing new that you can possibly learn or achieve.


"The other side of the coin to success isn't failure, it's growth."
— Jim Collins


Remember that if something isn't growing, it's in the process of dying. I encourage you to keep your dreams and vision alive by making personal growth a lifestyle for yourself and by creating an environment for growth in your workplace.

Question for Growth: Do you have a daily personal growth plan written out?

Book Recommendation:

The Success Journey -  The Process of Living Your Dreams by John Maxwell

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God is for YOU,
Pastor David Blunt




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Subscribe now for our weekly David M. Blunt Leadership Podcast on YouTube with new episodes every Monday at 7pm! This week Pastor's topic is "Mental Toughness" and how to go from average to outstanding.



COTR Marketplace Ministry is a ministry for those in the marketplace and those interested in starting a business. Lifelong learners, entrepreneurs, and business owners meet to grow in their leadership and skills. This is a great place to network, build relationships and exchange ideas!

We invite you to join us on Saturday, August 19, at 4:15pm in the main campus lobby for an extraordinary gathering of like-minded individuals. Whether you're a lifelong learner, seasoned entrepreneur, aspiring businessperson, or simply interested in starting your own venture, this event is tailor-made for you!

Prepare to be captivated as we welcome esteemed guest speaker, Dan Gable. As one of the greatest wrestlers of all time, a two-time NCAA Division 1 national champion, and an Olympic gold medalist, his wisdom and achievements will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on both your personal and business life.

If you would like to showcase your business services or products, we have a unique opportunity to set up display tables at the event. For $60 you can reserve a table where you will be able to tell others about the services you provide and sell those services and/or products. We will open this 45 minutes before and 30 minutes after the Marketplace dinner to display your business.

Dinner and childcare are included in the price of your ticket. Purchase your tickets online for just $15 or $20 at the door.