Where are you in your adult development?

Did you know that 58% of the adult population are in socialised mind category. Based upon Kegan’s adult development theory this means that most of the adults operating in the world we live in are concerned with what other people think of them. They don’t want to stand out from the crowd and they are unable to make decisions based upon their own desires and aspirations because they are too concerned that they will get criticised or judged from others.

Therefore, they choose to stay with status quo because they think it is easier. But research has shown that those who remain in socialised mind very rarely feel truly satisfied and fulfilled. This will overtime induce restlessness, constant comparison and overall dissatisfaction and disappointment.

Coaches work with many people who are feeling this way? Maybe you too have felt this way in the past or you feel this way now? When in socialised mind, you don’t realise that you can move into the next phase of adult development which is the self-authoring mind at any time you choose. Yes, you will need to do some development on yourself specifically around your mindset, lifestyle choices and personal growth, but it can be done with a growth mindset.

Self-authoring mind means you can move beyond the labels and roles you've been playing, and instead share your thoughts and opinions openly with others and be ok if your friends or colleagues don’t agree. It means you can speak up in your team meetings at work and own your opinions, thoughts or ideas. It means you can say No instead of Yes all the time and it gives you the freedom to be you! Instead of conforming, just to fit in and be liked.

Adult learning is essential to your wellbeing and motivation. Those who work and play to their strengths find life easier to navigate - they engage in activities at home and work where their strengths can be used if they seek new learning and opportunities to develop them further. Those who are true to themselves and put their development as a priority move forward to achieve their goals and aspirations.

How you spend your time will determine how successful you feel.

So as we move towards the end of the year why not try something different, why not take the bull by the horns and learn something new! Learning doesn’t need to be expensive there is something out there for everyone - the only cost of learning is your time. It's within your gift to move forward in your adult development.

Do you want to look back on your life knowing you’ve stunted your own growth and contribution to the world?