Professional Growth: Propagating Employee Success
Two weeks ago, I began propagating three houseplant clippings, providing them with identical resources (water, light, oxygen — all in the same location). Yet, their growth has been remarkably different. The first has developed small roots, the second’s roots are long enough to be planted, and the third hasn’t grown any roots at all.
Curious about what might be going wrong, I researched and discovered that the third plant requires a different propagation method, as it cannot grow in water. This observation resonates deeply.
In both our professional and personal lives, we often assume that the same resources or environments will work for everyone, but just as plants have individual needs, so do humans. Recognizing and nurturing these differences is vital to unlocking our potential and fostering growth. Plant number 3 is not defective. It simply has a different biological process than the other two, making its needs different.
Professionally, I’ve experienced environments that are built to allow employees to thrive individually. These are the environments where I’ve excelled and produced work that met and exceeded expectations of my employer. I’ve also worked in environments that are less understanding and more focused on a standardized approach that does not accommodate personal differences in employees. These are the environments where I did not thrive, because I didn’t have the tools and resources I needed to be the best employee.
As human beings we must be cognizant of our natural instinct to assume everyone’s needs are the same as our own. By nurturing the unique qualities that make each of us who we are, you will foster a culture in your company that allows everyone to grow. 💚
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