Five Ways to Start Thinking Bigger

Introduction:

To help you think bigger, here are five strategies to start today. These will help you set a foundation for personal and professional growth, which we’ll continue exploring next week:

You know, so many people have asked, "How do I think big? How do I dream creatively?" It’s a great question, because having big dreams, big goals, and a big future is essential for growth. Let’s explore some practical ways to get started.

1. Develop a Personal Growth Plan

Just think about it — growth doesn’t happen by accident. It’s like planting a garden; you’ve got to put in the time and effort to make it flourish. A while back, I heard John Maxwell talk about the importance of a personal growth plan, and it stuck with me. He said if you don’t have a plan, you’re drifting. So, let’s not drift. Create a daily routine that includes reading, learning, and setting goals. Imagine where you’ll be a year from now with that intentional effort!

2. Surround Yourself with the Right People

I’ll never forget a conversation I had with someone who said, "Show me your circle, and I’ll show you your future." That’s how much influence our relationships have. If you want to think bigger, you’ve got to surround yourself with people who stretch you, inspire you, and believe in big dreams. And if you’re thinking, "But I don’t know anyone like that," here’s the good news: books, podcasts, and online communities can fill that gap. Those voices can challenge your thinking just as much as a face-to-face conversation.

3. Seek New Experiences

Here’s a question for you: when was the last time you did something for the first time? New experiences are like fuel for big thinking. I’ll share a quick story. A billionaire I read about never gave his kids money for clothes or toys, but anytime they wanted to travel or try something new, he said yes. Why? Because those experiences expand your perspective. Whether it’s traveling to a new place or simply trying a new activity, every experience helps you see beyond where you are today. So, go ahead — book that trip, sign up for that class, or say yes to something outside your comfort zone.

4. Be Open to New Ideas

Opportunities don’t always show up wearing a neon sign. Sometimes, they come disguised as challenges or changes. That’s why being open to new ideas is so critical. A mentor of mine once said, “When you wake up, decide if you’re going to focus on obstacles or opportunities.” What a mindset shift, right? The next time something unexpected comes your way, instead of saying, “This won’t work,” try asking, “What’s the opportunity here?” You’d be amazed at what’s possible when you’re open.

5. Ask Questions of High Achievers

Have you ever noticed how the right question can change everything? Questions like, "What’s one thing you’d do differently if you started over?" or "What habits helped you the most?" can unlock doors you didn’t even know were there. When you meet someone who’s already where you want to go, don’t hold back. Ask. Learn. Grow. The answers could shift your thinking and your future.

Conclusion

Leadership is a journey, and thinking big is a critical part of that journey. As you begin to apply these principles, remember this: God never leads us back; He always leads us forward. This perspective encourages us to embrace new challenges and opportunities, trusting that each step forward aligns with a greater purpose. By thinking big and keeping your focus on forward movement, you position yourself for growth and greater impact in your leadership journey. The size of your success is determined by the size of your belief. So let’s stretch those beliefs and make room for the extraordinary. The best is yet to come!