When we think of spiritual growth, a lot of us have very different ideas as to what it takes. I want to consider the type of spiritual growth we all need as human beings to continue to be healthy and successful in our lives. I am speaking in general terms, but, according to what you believe, you can add what you need to do to grow spiritually in your own life.
SPIRITUAL GROWTH
In Our Mind - In order to be better at our jobs or in our lives as people, we need to guard our minds. By that I mean to think on good and positive things instead of negative or ugly things. For instance, if you have a situation at work that is challenging, you will be much more able to deal with that situation if you continue to look for the positive things in it and not dwell on the negative. Whether it's with dealing with a person, or changes that are difficult or something even within your family, if you continuously dwell on how hard things on, how unhappy you are or how someone gets on your nerves, the chances are it will just get worse for you instead of better. In life, there are times when there are situations we just can't change. Sometimes we can endure and focus on what is good. Other times, when our spirit is only fed ugliness...well we need to move on from that. When our spirit is crushed, it makes the rest of our lives unbearable, so daily do your best to keep your mind on good and positive things.
In Our Speech - My mom taught me a saying that I have tried to live by (although not always successfully) and that is: "If you can't say anything nice, then don't say anything at all". In order for you to grow spiritually, this needs to be a staple in your life. To rise above gossip. To be sure that the things you share are truthful and helpful--not untruthful and hurtful. Don't embellish things you need to share by distorting facts or imposing your own opinions on things to hurt someone else or make someone think more highly of you. In the workplace, this is really important. Even if you have a really close friend, you never know when something you say may get back to who you were saying it about or how the person you are saying it to may HEAR what you are saying. You have NO CONTROL over information you give AFTER you give it. You only have control over what you say. Even if something is a true statement, it doesn't always mean it's the best thing to say. In a family, we can get angry and say things we don't mean and not only does it hurt the person that is on the other end of that, but it will hurt your spirit as well. Try to say something positive to all you come in contact with. If you truly can't say anything positive, then don't say anything and don't dwell on it either.
In Our Behavior - Another way to help our spiritual selves grow is to watch our behavior. If you are out, representing your company, support your company publicly. If you can't, maybe it's time to move on to another job. In general you should be ethical, fair and trustworthy not only in your job, but with your family as well. Be kind. Help someone whenever you can and do it with a smile. I am a firm believer of what you put out there, you will get back, so be careful or you may get back something you don't want to.
Feed Your Spirit - If we apply this to our work lives, we always need to be willing to read, learn and grow at our jobs. Find ways to motivate yourself to do your best. For some, it's reading things that teaches us how to be our best self, for others it's taking time to be still and listen to what our heart is telling us to do, and for others it's time to pray. Make sure you do what you need to do to keep your spirit refreshed and ready for whatever tomorrow holds.
I realize for some of you, this doesn't really go deep enough into what it means to grow spiritually. My goal is to make you think of that side of yourself and to cause you to want to be a well rounded, healthy, happy human being. I believe your own heart will tell you where to find more spiritual depth once you get started. You just need to be sure to listen and follow.
Until Next Time!
Jen Lush--Associate Broker and Mother of Managing Broker
Photo Credit: Ty Williams
