It’s tempting to settle for average. It’s comfortable. It’s safe. After all, “average” can often be
achieved just by showing up. However, mediocrity is not a worthy goal. In fact, staying in the status quo often leads to stagnation and ultimately destruction. As psychologist Abraham Maslow wisely said, “If you plan on being anything less than you are capable of being, you will probably be unhappy the rest of your life.”
John Maxwell’s Law of the Rubber Band illustrates this concept clearly: growth stops when you lose the tension between where you are and where you could be. If you’ve lost that tension, you’ve stopped growing.
The Power and Resistance of Stretching
Stretching—pushing beyond your comfort zone—holds incredible benefits, but few people are willing to do it consistently. Why? Because stretching always begins on the inside, and it requires change. As James Allen put it, “You cannot travel within and stand without.” Leading yourself toward growth is a prerequisite to leading others, and that process starts with your own willingness to stretch.
But let’s face it: stretching can be uncomfortable. It means leaving behind what’s familiar, stepping into the unknown, and taking risks. You must believe in the possibility of starting again, even when you can’t predict whether those around you will support your journey. Sometimes, stretching means outgrowing your current role, your current career, or even your current circle of friends.
Despite the risks, the dream is real. Growth is real. It’s never too late to become who you were meant to be. Rabbi Nahman captured this sentiment perfectly: “If you won’t be better tomorrow than today, then what do you need tomorrow for?”
Where You Are Is Exactly Where You Should Be
You are exactly where you should be in life based on the choices, actions, and habits that have led you to this moment. But the real question is: where do you want to go from here? How do you evaluate where you are and where you could be?
Look at the people around you. Who do you know that is truly striving to make their life better—not just financially, but holistically? Consider the five people you spend the most time with in your personal or professional life. You are the average of these five people. Are they pushing you to grow, or are they holding you back?
Steps to Start Stretching Toward Amazing Growth
If you feel stuck or like you’ve settled in certain areas of your life, it’s time to take action. Here are some specific steps to help you start stretching:
Evaluate where you’ve settled: In what areas of your life have you lost your drive to grow? Identify where you’ve become complacent and think about why.
Define your potential: Have you clearly defined your own potential? If not, seeking guidance from a mentor or coach may be necessary.
Identify hindering habits: What habits have you developed that are holding you back from reaching your full potential? Recognize them so you can begin to change them.
Rate your satisfaction: In what areas of your life have you become “average” and lost your stretch? Rate your satisfaction in these areas.
Create specific ways to stretch: Focus on the areas of your life where you’re no longer growing, and develop strategies to start stretching again. Remember to find a balance between where you are and where you want to be, so your stretch is challenging yet achievable.
Set SMART goals: Your stretching goals should be:
Specific – Avoid vague terms like “more,” “better,” or “faster.”
Measurable – If you can’t measure it, how will you know you succeeded?
Attainable – Goals should be realistic and within reach.
Realistic – Make sure your goals are something you can do.
Timed – Without a time frame, a goal is just a wish.
Surround yourself with growth-minded people: Who are the people you want to bring with you on your growth journey? Make sure your circle supports your aspirations.
Ready to Stretch?
At Leadership Harbor, we’re committed to helping you stretch beyond your current limits and into the future you dream of. We want to be your Thinking Partner, guiding you and those around you on a path to greater growth, fulfillment, and success. Set up a complimentary discovery session today, and together, we can create a personalized growth program that fits your investment level of time and money.
Let’s start stretching!
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