If you’re not embarrassed by your past, you’re not growing enough

If you’re not embarrassed by who you were five years ago, you’re probably not growing enough.

I feel like fainting when I think about some of the misguided things I thought, said and did earlier in my career.

It’s deeply uncomfortable for me to reflect on some of my younger self’s beliefs and behaviours – both at work and in life generally.

But I try to remind myself that it could be worse – I might see nothing from earlier in my career and life that makes me uncomfortable, which could only mean I’m not growing much at all (or that I’m incapable of reflection).

Nobody knows everything and everyone is getting plenty of things wrong.

The bosses in the corner office? They’re still working things out as they go and making mistakes along the way.

The front line workers? They’re fumbling things here and there too, even if they’re trying their best.

Recognising that no one has all the answers and everyone has plenty left to learn and improve can be an enduring source of humility. And an opportunity to practice compassion. More compassion for ourselves – and for others.

Because, as much as we might have screwed things up in the past, we can recognise that we’re simply good people, trying their best who make mistakes – and are capable of growth.

And in that sense, we’re no different to anyone else.

Growth is easier with the right support

Every leader is learning in real time. Coaching gives you space to reflect honestly, work through challenges and grow with clarity and confidence – without pretending you have all the answers.