Personal Development
For nearly 14 years, personal development has been a part of my life. It started when I first joined lululemon in July 2014, where I learned about setting goals and listened to the CDs of Brian Tracy’s “The Psychology of Achievement.” Personal development was a practice that lululemon founder Chip Wilson instilled upon us, and for this I am forever grateful to him. Over the years, I have read dozens of books, listened to hundreds of audiobooks and podcast episodes, and attended conferences, both online and in person, all centred on this topic. I define personal development as the active pursuit of education and knowledge focused on growing into a version of yourself that is rich with goals, values and purpose. It is this ongoing process that brings joy and fulfillment into my daily life. It’s why I’m obsessed with this practice and love surrounding myself with people and experiences that both challenge and leave a positive impact on me.
Growth is one of the words I would use to describe what 2020 was about for me. Taking a break from my career work, I spent hours reading, writing and dreaming. I was determined to figure out what my purpose on this earth is because I knew it went beyond the corporate career that I’ve built. I had deep conversations with people about life and their experiences, learned about my own privilege and recognized why others may view me as challenging or difficult. I expanded my heart and my mind, and opened my eyes to the inequality that exists in this world. I always knew it was there but it was easy to ignore, because of my privilege.
I fell in love with myself. I recognized my intelligence and my strength and learned not to worry about what other people think of me. I stopped obsessing over my weight and my body and have acknowledged that I can both appreciate it while still wanting to change it; to become healthier but not deprived. I use beauty treatments and exercise as forms of self-care, along with meditation and sleep. Not as punishment or to meet societal standards, but because they make me feel alive.
None of this would have happened if personal development wasn’t a part of my life. A part of my soul.
If you’re new to personal development or want to improve the quality of your life, find people who speak to you, who reach you at a deeper level. You’ll know what I mean when you find them. I’ve compiled a list (in alphabetical order) of people whose work has had a profound impact on me. Where I’ve linked their website, I also encourage you to check out their social media to see if they help spark something within you. If there are people who have done this for you, please share, I would love to know.
Brendon Burchard – known for motivation and marketing, Brendon is an author, host of two podcasts, world-renowned coach and keynote speaker and founder of multiple businesses including High Performance Academy and GrowthDay. I have a big goal to be a presenter at one of his events!
Brené Brown – a research professor, author and podcaster who studies courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy. If you haven’t watched her TED Talk “The Power of Vulnerability”, I encourage you to do that right now.
Dave Hollis – from Disney Executive to writer, Dave went from not understanding the need for personal development to embracing it. His words are powerfully crafted and his social media is a beautiful combination of true emotion, inspiration and Dad life.
Jamie Kern Lima – founder of IT Cosmetics and author of her first book, Believe IT which comes out February 23, 2021. I was first introduced to Jamie in October 2021 and won over by her authenticity, happiness and determination to succeed, despite the criticism she faced.
Jay Shetty – a former monk, Jay has written a book that is both beautiful and practical. His podcast On Purpose is one of the many tools he offers to support his mission of having wisdom go viral.
Jenna Kutcher – my go to for authentic, actionable and effective entrepreneurial advice. Jenna shares education via her blog, online courses, and The Goal Digger podcast.
Lewis Howes – host of The School of Greatness podcast, author and former pro athlete. He is one of the best interviewers I have ever listened to and has a great variety of guests on his podcast.
Mel Robbins – a straight shooter, phenomenal coach and speaker. Mel offers practical advice via her audiobooks, online courses and coaching program.
Shayla Ouelette Stonechild – A multi-talented, empowering activist and founder of the non-profit organization Matriarch Movement. Shayla has opened my eyes to the truth about what it’s like to live as an Indigenous Canadian.
Additionally, I suggest participating in events that are focused on growth or knowledge. People in the personal development and education world offer free challenges, and paid courses and seminars. Choose whatever interests you and fits into your budget! Three weeks into this year, I’ve completed free challenges hosted by Dave Hollis & Mel Robbins, am currently a member of Jamie Kern Lima’s Believe IT Book Launch Team (only requirement was pre-ordering the book) and am signed up for Brendon Burchard’s GrowthDay coaching membership ($299 USD/year) which features a number of the people on my list. I have a pretty generous budget for events in this realm because of the knowledge and value they add to my life. I’ve got my fingers crossed that I’ll be able to attend one in person event this year too, ideally somewhere warm!
I truly hope that this post has inspired you to spend time learning and growing! It’s the actions we take daily that allow us to create lives that we love.