Growth is a choice. But even more, it’s a human need.

If we look at Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, he separates deficiency needs (the first three levels: physiological, safety, and love & belonging) from growth needs (esteem and self-actualisation), where achievement and personal growth play an important role.

When we ignore growth, we shrink. It’s like a tree held in a frame kept neat but unable to rise or spread. Real growth has many dimensions: body, mind, and spirit. The most powerful growth is holistic steps forward on each level over time.

We grow through life in different dimensions. Our goals and ambitions change with our needs and experiences. But one thing is certain: growth doesn’t happen in the comfort zone. The cosy, known place wants to keep us safe and still. Growth comes when we find the courage to face fear and uncertainty, step outside, and try something new to discover, unlearn, relearn, and learn.

Growth is also a habit. Physical growth may be given, but strength, flexibility, and energy come from choices: moving more, training muscles, caring for our bodies. The same applies to mind and spirit.

From a science point of view: research on neuroplasticity shows that, at any age, our brains can form and strengthen new neural connections when we keep learning and practising.

For a quick dose of growth, here are ten of my favourite quotes:

“Growth and comfort do not coexist.” - Ginni Rometty

“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” -  T. S. Eliot

“A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for.” - John A. Shedd

“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.” - Lao Tzu

“You can choose courage, or you can choose comfort. You cannot have both.” -  Brené Brown

“What got you here won’t get you there.” -  Marshall Goldsmith

“You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” - James Clear

“A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.” - Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.

“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

“If you want something you’ve never had, you must be willing to do something you’ve never done.” -  Thomas Jefferson

And now, what about your growth this year?

Looking back at 2025 so far, what are your growth dimensions in life and work?
Where did you focus this year, and what could you still tackle in the last quarter?

Have the courage to always adopt a growth mindset as one of the most sustainable choices to keep you future-fit. Not sure how to create your next growth opportunities on your career path? Let’s talk.

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