Submitted by: Robert Fazio, Ph.D., Talent and Leadership Consultant, Leadership Research Institute

Every journey, no matter the distance, begins with one step. Growth STEPS are action steps toward our desired destinations. Growth STEPS are essential because they provide us with concrete ways we can take control of ourselves and begin to move toward our objectives. Taking Growth STEPS does not mean that there are not barriers or external challenges. Quite the opposite, I acknowledge potential speed bumps and roadblocks that can impact us (i.e. changes in the market, regulations, and etc.). However, the focus is on what you can control as opposed to what you can’t control.

In order to move toward your desired outcomes you need to create Growth STEPS that are practical, engaging, easy to follow, and effective. Growth STEPS need to be Specific, Time oriented, Emotional, Positive, and Self-controlled. Below you will be presented with a description of each characteristic and examples. Executives that take the time write down their STEPS and ensure they meet the following criteria are much more likely to achieve their desired results.

  • S-Specific and measurable (has to be clear and able to be measured)
  • T-Time-oriented (need to have an element of when)
  • E-Emotional (connected to what you want and are invested in)
  • P-Positive (needs to have an element of moving forward)
  • S-Self-controlled (under your control)

Specific: Growth STEPS need to be specific and measurable. Someone who does not know you should be able to know whether or not you have completed your growth step.

Example (not specific): I will take time to be strategic more often.

Example (specific): On the first Monday of every month, I will have scheduled time to be strategic and think through my approach to talent management and leadership.

Time oriented: An effective Growth STEP is one that has an element of time. You know when it is completed.

Example: I will talk with three people a month and give them feedback on what they are doing well and what I would like to see them do differently.

Emotional: Growth STEPS need to include an emotional connection to you. Growth STEPS need to be something that YOU want to accomplish and something that you are invested in.

Example: I want to increase my self-awareness by keeping a journal three times a week.

Positive: Growth STEPS need to be stated positively so you know they are helping you grow and move forward.

Example (negative): I am not going to be negative and doubt my confidence.

Example (positive):  I am going to remain positive by saying positive statements to myself and others even when things are not going my way.

Self-Controlled: Growth STEPS need to be under your control. They need to be actions that you have control over and you are the deciding factor of whether they are completed or not.

Example: I am going to ask for feedback on my leadership style once a day in the morning.