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Embracing New Possibilities in 2024



In life, there exists a realm of untapped potential and unexplored possibilities waiting to be discovered. As we embark on a new chapter and a new year, let's delve into the transformative power of Appreciative Inquiry—an approach that recognizes the strengths and successes within and encourages us to give ourselves permission to try something new.

 

This blog post invites you on a journey of self-discovery, pushing boundaries, and embracing the limitless possibilities that await.

 

The permission to explore

Often, our own reservations and self-doubt become the barriers that limit our potential. Appreciative Inquiry challenges this mindset, urging us to grant permission to ourselves to explore new territories.

 

I started my company, ABWilson Consulting, on January 9, 2023. When I began, I had no idea what the year would look like. I made assumptions about the work I would be engaged in and the types of clients I would be serving.

 

I had one client. However, I set up my office and put things in place as though I had ten clients with more waiting to work with me. I gave myself permission to explore opportunities as they came to me. I said yes to training, programs and meetings with no knowledge or expectation of where they would lead.

 

I knew that Appreciative Inquiry gave me energy. I looked for opportunities to learn more, to use it, to apply it and to allow it to grow in my space.

 

Here are a few questions you can ask yourself as you look forward to what’s possible:

 

  • What passions or interests have I set aside, and what if I gave myself permission to pursue them?

  • In what ways can embracing the unknown lead to personal growth and expanded horizons?

  • How does granting myself permission to try something new align with my values and aspirations?

 

Discovering strengths in the unfamiliar

Appreciative Inquiry operates on the belief that strengths can be found in every experience.

 

I used the experiences I had with a consulting company I started in 2006 with my brother. I knew what it took to be successful, I knew how to plan, I knew what discipline looked like. I was able to identify strengths from my time with that company and apply them to my own organization.

 

Here are some questions to consider as you think about your next step. When trying something new, focus on the positive aspects:

 

  • What strengths can I leverage from my past experiences to excel in this new venture?

  • How can the lessons learned from previous opportunities contribute to my success in the unfamiliar?

  • In what ways can I appreciate and celebrate the journey of learning and growth, even when faced with uncertainty?

 

Cultivating a growth mindset

When I look back over the year, I can see how much I have learned and grown.

 

I faced uncertainty. I faced many nos (although I like to think of them as ‘not nows’). I also received many yeses. I didn’t let the nos stop me. In fact, they made me determined to find a way to get to a yes.

 

There is one project that I don’t have a yes on yet. I will continue to refine my presentation and email invitations. I will continue to knock on doors, I will continue to talk with people until that one person says, ‘let’s give it a try.’

 

Trying something new is synonymous with personal and intellectual growth. Foster a growth mindset with questions that encourage continuous learning:

 

  • How can I view challenges as opportunities for learning and development?

  • What skills or knowledge can I acquire from this new experience that will contribute to my personal and professional growth?

  • In what ways does embracing the learning process enhance my resilience and adaptability?

 

Nurturing self-compassion

One thing I’m learning and have to continually remind myself is, appreciate myself. I must take the time to reflect on and express appreciation for how far I’ve come. I have to identify and celebrate the successes so I can build on them.

 

In the pursuit of something new, self-compassion and self-appreciation become guiding forces. Appreciative Inquiry prompts us to be kind to ourselves:

 

  • How can I approach the uncertainties of trying something new with self-compassion, self-appreciation and understanding?

  • In what ways can self-compassion act as a foundation for resilience and perseverance?

  • What affirmations can I use to reassure myself when faced with challenges in this new endeavor?

 

As we step into the realm of the unknown, armed with the principles of Appreciative Inquiry, let's give ourselves permission to embrace new possibilities. Whether it's a creative pursuit, a professional opportunity (disguised as a challenge), or a personal adventure, the journey of trying something new holds immeasurable potential for self-discovery, growth and joy.

 

Here's to unlocking the doors to untold possibilities and witnessing the magic that unfolds when we grant ourselves the freedom and permission, to explore the uncharted territories of our own potential.

 

Would you like more information about Appreciative Inquiry and how it can transform your team? Complete this simple form. It will take less than 30 seconds.

 

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