We Build on What We Know

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Building on What We Know: The Art of Intentional Growth

Growth is a process that requires both intention and action. Wilson’s illustration above provides a simple but powerful reminder: “When we grow, we build on what we know.” Using the metaphor of a paintbrush layering color on a canvas, it beautifully encapsulates the concept of growth as an additive process—one where our past experiences, skills, and knowledge serve as the foundation for our future progress.

Growth Is a Choice, Not an Accident

As John C. Maxwell wisely notes, “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.” Change will happen whether we want it to or not. Markets shift, industries evolve, and technology advances. However, growth—both personal and professional—is a deliberate decision. It requires us to take what we know, reflect on it, and use it as a stepping stone to greater possibilities.

For entrepreneurs, leaders, and small business owners, this concept is particularly insightful. Each milestone your business achieves or each skill you master is like a brushstroke on your canvas. The more intentional and strategic you are in building upon that foundation, the more vibrant and impactful your overall picture becomes.

The Two Key Lessons in the Illustration

Growth Builds Upon Experience Growth doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s the result of applying lessons from past successes and failures. Each step forward is informed by what we’ve learned before. For businesses, this might mean improving operations based on customer feedback or expanding a product line by building on what’s already working.

Growth Requires Action A paintbrush left idle creates no masterpiece. Similarly, growth requires action. It means taking calculated risks, making bold decisions, and embracing challenges. Whether you’re launching a new product or stepping into a leadership role, every decision adds to your growth story.

How to Apply This in Your Leadership and Business Journey

Reflect Regularly: Take time to assess what you’ve learned from past projects, partnerships, or challenges. What worked? What didn’t? Use this knowledge to guide your next steps.

Embrace Lifelong Learning: Growth thrives on curiosity. Stay open to learning new skills, exploring new industries, and adapting to the ever-changing business environment.

Take Strategic Risks: Growth often happens outside your comfort zone. Don’t shy away from new opportunities; instead, build on what you know to approach them with confidence.

Celebrate Progress: Every stroke of the brush matters. Acknowledge the small wins and recognize how they contribute to the bigger picture.

Final Thoughts

Growth is not about starting from scratch with every new endeavor; it’s about layering new knowledge and experiences onto the foundation you’ve already built. Like the paintbrush in the illustration, your journey adds depth, color, and texture to your story.

Leaders, entrepreneurs, and small business owners—keep building, keep growing, and remember: every step forward is a chance to create something remarkable. - Lead Visually