The Path to Thinking Big
Leadership Lessons for Those in the Marketplace
Last week, I gave you reflective questions to help you think big, and I hope you’ve been putting them to work. This week, we’re going to dive even deeper into the subject, exploring how to expand your mindset, learn from high achievers, and take practical steps to elevate your leadership.
Ephesians 3:20 says that God is able to do "exceedingly abundantly above all we can ask or think." That’s not just a promise—it’s an invitation. God works through our asking and thinking, and the size of your success is determined by the size of your belief. If you think small, you’ll stay small. But when you think big and ask big, you align yourself with His plans to do more than you can imagine.
So, let’s get into it. Here are some practical ways to think bigger and lead stronger.
Ask Questions to High Achievers
One of the fastest ways to grow is to learn from people who are further along the journey than you. When you have the opportunity to be around high achievers, don’t waste it—come prepared with questions. Here are a few to consider:
How do they think? Understanding their thought process can help you shift your own mindset and approach to challenges.
How have they overcome obstacles? Everyone faces setbacks, but it’s how you respond to them that matters.
How do they manage and master themselves? Discipline is the foundation of growth, and great leaders are disciplined in their habits and routines.
What is their daily routine? Your future is hidden in your daily routine. Find out what successful people prioritize every day.
What are their habits? Habits shape your outcomes. Learn what habits they’ve cultivated to achieve success.
Who do they know that you should know? Networking is key. Ask for introductions to people who can inspire or support your growth.
Surround Yourself with Big Thinkers
Let me ask you something: Who are you spending your time with? Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." If you’re around small thinkers, you’ll stay small. But when you surround yourself with people who challenge you, encourage you, and inspire you to grow, you’ll start thinking and dreaming bigger.
I pray every day, “Lord, keep the wrong people out of my life and bring the right people in.” That’s a prayer every leader needs to pray. Your relationships will either stretch you or shrink you. So, be intentional about who you’re spending time with.
Watch Your Language and Your Words
Your words shape your reality. If you’re constantly saying things like, “I can’t,” or, “That’s impossible,” you’re creating mental limits that hold you back. Dr. Norman Vincent Peale said, “Take impossible out of your vocabulary.”
Start speaking words of faith, hope, and possibility. Replace negative self-talk with affirmations like, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” or, “God is able to exceed my expectations.” What you say matters, so make sure your words align with the bigger life you want to create.
Use Your Imagination
God has given you the gift of imagination to help you see beyond what is and envision what could be. Years ago, I wanted a Harley-Davidson Fat Boy motorcycle. I didn’t have the money for it, but I believed I would one day. So, I took a picture of the bike and taped it to the dash of my car. Every time I got in my car, I imagined myself riding that Harley.
Eventually, I had the bike. It wasn’t magic—it was faith, imagination, and action working together. If you can imagine it, you can move toward it. Use your imagination to picture the life and leadership God has called you to.
Have a Dream Board
For decades, I’ve used a dream board to keep my vision in front of me. At home, I have a board filled with pictures and goals that represent what I’m believing for. Every time I see it, I pray over it.
Why is this so important? Because visualization is a powerful tool. It keeps you focused on your goals and reminds you of where you’re headed. Whether it’s a personal goal, a business dream, or something for your family, put it on your dream board and keep believing for it.
Have an Attitude of Seeing What Can Be, Not Just What Is
A big part of thinking bigger is learning to see potential where others only see problems. When I was 14, I bought an old, run-down 1957 Chevy for $75. It was dirty and in bad shape, but I didn’t see it for what it was—I saw it for what it could become.
I spent a week cleaning and restoring it, then sold it for $150. That taught me a valuable lesson: opportunities are everywhere if you can see what’s possible. As a leader, don’t just look at things as they are. Ask yourself, “What can this become?”
Be the Architect of Your Life
Here’s the truth: no one else is responsible for your success but you. You can’t blame your circumstances, your upbringing, or anyone else. If you want to change your life, you have to take ownership of it.
Stop making excuses, and start designing the life God has called you to. Be intentional about your actions, your thoughts, and your decisions. Decide today that you’re going to lead your family, your business, and yourself to a better future.
Final Thoughts
Thinking big isn’t just about achieving success—it’s about aligning your life and leadership with God’s bigger plans for you. It’s about asking big, dreaming big, and living boldly. When you watch your words, use your imagination, and take ownership of your life, you open the door for God to do exceedingly abundantly above all you can ask or think.
If this Leadership Lifter has encouraged you, share it with someone who needs to hear this message. And always remember: God is for you, and with Him, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.
Blessings,
Pastor David Blunt
