When I talk to leaders about growth and learning, I used to illustrate the concept with a triangle, representing three critical components of development. Recently, however, a coachee inspired me to shift my perspective, and I now visualize this journey as a stool. In this analogy, the seat of the stool represents you, while the three legs represent your supervisor, your mentor, and your coach. This structure emphasizes that your growth relies on a strong foundation supported by these essential relationships.

The seat of the stool is you. What books are you reading? What articles do you review? What podcasts do you listen to? I often hear, "I don't have time during my day," but it’s crucial to carve out time for this vital aspect of personal development. Start with just 10 minutes and gradually increase that time to what feels right for you. An important part of this process is reflection, so consider keeping a journal entry that addresses two key questions: 1) What did I learn today? and 2) What questions do I have about what I learned?

One leg of the stool represents your supervisor. It's essential to seek and receive constructive feedback from them. How do you respond to that feedback? Keep in mind that you don’t have to like or agree with the feedback for it to be valuable. Sometimes, the hardest feedback comes from those who care about you the most. If you find yourself dismissing feedback, take a moment to reflect on what truths might be embedded in it that you may be overlooking.

The second leg signifies your mentor. Mentors, both formal and informal, are individuals with more experience who can provide guidance tailored to your specific context. They help you navigate complex situations and offer insights drawn from their own journeys.

The third leg represents your coach. A coach can provide targeted support and accountability, helping you set goals, sharpen your skills, and push you out of your comfort zone. They are instrumental in helping you recognize your potential and develop a plan to achieve it.

Together, these three legs—your supervisor, your mentor, and your coach—support you, the seat of the stool, creating a stable foundation for continuous learning and personal growth.