Refinement

In the book of Proverbs the refining of who we are is compared to how silver and gold are purified. Every time I hit these verses in my morning readings, I reflect on how I am being refined.

This may seem obvious, but in every area of our life we can improve. For most of us, increasing in value and excellence is a desired outcome for our character, integrity, and well-being. Refinement processes help to separate that which is undesirable from that which is cherished. From the fuel we consume to our character development, change is needed for the next level.

Intentionally seeking to refine

At Work

• Find the process to improve that adds value to others
• Network with those that are in positions where you want to be in a year, two years, or at the peak of your career
• Get feedback constantly. Be proactive and seek from those that will be honest, transparent, and don’t sugar coat.

From a personal perspective

• Get your mastermind group together. Make it consistent, relevant, and meaningful. Don’t accept mediocrity of half commitments. I must admit this is one area I need a lot of growth in.
• Reflect on your relationships. Do you have a list of places where you could be a better friend, spouse, or parent? How can you refine, if you don’t know what should be removed and/or clean? There is a quote in some circles “you are the average of the 5 people you are around the most”. If that is the case, what actions might you take?
• Seek different perspectives for understanding. As you learn, your points of view get shaped and evolve.

I have a lot of refining to do.