Leaving the grind doesn’t mean quitting work. In my personal journey, I discovered work that is meaningful and isn’t just about money. Finding what works for me was key, and doing meaningful work has helped my personal development.
In my role as an executive at Foodture, I’m constantly asked about growth strategies, profitability, and how to stay ahead of the competition. That’s all important—but I’ve learned the hard way that sustainable business growth actually starts with personal growth. If you’re not investing in your own development, you’re leaving serious value on the table. And frankly, that’s a business risk I’m no longer willing to take.
Early in my career, my definition of success was textbook: prestigious degree, a high-powered job, and a title that looked good on paper. I hit those marks, but the sense of accomplishment was, honestly, pretty hollow. What those milestones didn’t tell you is that burnout is lurking just around the corner when you’re chasing someone else’s idea of achievement. I had to ask myself: is external validation really worth sacrificing my well-being and authenticity?
Turns out, it’s not. The biggest ROI I’ve ever seen came from investing in myself—through continued learning, coaching, and surrounding myself with people who challenge and support me. I started tracking progress in simple ways: journaling goals, reflecting on setbacks, and actively seeking feedback from colleagues and mentors. It’s not glamorous, but it’s effective. Small wins compound, and over time, you start to notice the real transformation in how you lead, relate, and deliver results.
Boundaries are non-negotiable. If you want to show up as a high-performing leader, you have to protect your time, energy, and mental space. That means saying no, prioritizing self-care, and recognizing that resilience isn’t about never failing—it’s about getting back up, learning, and adapting faster than before. The reality is, business is unpredictable. The market shifts. Projects go sideways. If you’re not building your own resilience, you’re not going to last.
Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my growth. The best leaders aren’t just the ones with the most expertise—they’re the ones who empower others, foster a culture of learning, and aren’t afraid to admit what they don’t know. I’ve benefited immensely from having a strong network, and I make it a priority to pay that forward. Sharing insights, supporting colleagues through tough patches, and celebrating their wins isn’t just good leadership—it’s good business.
A critical insight: personal growth isn’t a box you check off. It’s a process, and at times, it’s uncomfortable. You have to be willing to reassess, recalibrate, and recommit—over and over. When setbacks hit (and they will), the most important thing is to revisit your purpose. Why did you take on this role? What’s the impact you want to have? Reconnecting with those motivations is what keeps you moving, especially when the path isn’t clear.
Building a business—or a career—that’s sustainable and impactful requires more than relentless hustle. It demands self-awareness, adaptability, and a willingness to grow beyond your comfort zone. When you model this for your team, you create a culture where innovation and resilience thrive.
Finally, don’t underestimate the ripple effect of sharing your journey. When you’re transparent about your wins and your challenges, you give others permission to do the same. That vulnerability builds trust, and trust is the bedrock of any high-performing team or organization. In the end, the most successful businesses—and leaders—are those who prioritize growth, not just on the balance sheet, but within themselves and their people. And that’s what truly moves the needle.
