For 20 years, I had the privilege to serve in the U.S. Army. I loved my military career. I had the opportunity to travel and live internationally while working with great people. To remain in the military, I was required to maintain my physical fitness level. Once a year, I would join my fellow soldiers to take our Physical Fitness Test.
This post is the second in a series about leading oneself intentionally. It was inspired one Sunday morning while listening to a sermon at our church. And now, more about training…
The test is composed of sit-ups, push-ups, and a two-mile run. We were required to meet a minimum number of sit-ups and push-ups in two minutes and run two miles within a certain time. The standards are based on age. In addition, we had to meet the height and weight standards.
While I enjoy exercise, I hate running. In order to meet the standards, I had to train. I tried everything to motivate myself. I purchased the best shoes, color-coordinated outfits, and a Walkman (yes, a Walkman). I participated in aerobics and other fun classes to strengthen my core and build muscle.
However, I would only begin to run about two months prior to the test. I would have my children ride their bikes while I would run to encourage me. Although I would pass my test, my run times didn’t improve. Why? I didn’t train properly. To improve my run time, I needed to train consistently.
“Learning and perfecting a new skill in life requires training.”
– Dr.Kim Moore
In his book Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell outlined the 10,000 – Hour Rule, which states it takes about 10,00 hours to become very good at a skill (2008). Therefore to become effective leaders, we need to spend 10,000 hours practicing our craft.
As a leader, training helps us to grow and develop our skills. Training allows us to do things that trying hard will not. Training provides us with abilities and knowledge related to a targeted skill.
The Law of Intentionality reminds us growth doesn’t just happen (Maxwell, 2012). To reach our potential, we must continue to grow and train.
You cannot change your destination overnight, but you change your direction overnight.”
– Jim Rohn
What training will you do today to grow as a leader?
#YourLeadershipGuide
Kim
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