Every living organism, organ, or cell is either in the process of growing or dying, nothing in between. Even homeostasis is a balance of anabolism and catabolism.

The same holds true for us personally: we’re either growing or dying every day -- either Personal Growth or Personal Death.

What are the signs of growth? 

Freshness, fragrance, life vigour, enthusiasm, addition, multiplication, creativity, innovation, encouragement, passion...

What are the signs of Death/Dying/Rotting? 

Dullness, stagnancy, wilting, withering, stench, reminiscence (“the good old days”), crankiness, whining, complaining, blaming, scapegoating, vengeance, spitefulness, jealousy, cynicism, “excusitis”...

Organizations are also either growing or dying, as there is no such thing as status quo. Your practice, department, or board is also either growing or dying.

Since an organization is ultimately a reflection of its leadership, the most fundamental question becomes: Are you still worth following today?  

You may have accomplished a lot in your life, with a long trail of degrees, titles, awards, trophies, positions, and appointments. However, are you still worth following TODAY?

It depends on whether your followers can sense the life and growth in you versus death and decay. 

Jascha Heifetz, a renowned Russian-American violinist, had a well-quoted saying:

“If I don't practice one day, I know it; two days, the critics know it; three days, the public knows it.”

To stay young, fresh, vibrant, alive, adventurous, inspiring, on-edge, and even dangerous, we need to ask ourselves:

When was the last time you...

• Tried something new you’ve never done before?

• Learned something new outside your core field?

• Dusted off a childhood dream and started pursuing it?

• Formulated a plan to cross another item off your bucket list?