Growth Isn’t Just About Effort—It’s About Environment

I recently was in Orlando, Florida—and I captured the photo above.

Whenever I travel, I have a tendency to be observant—I’m opening myself up to the culture, the vibes of the city, the people, and the unique characteristics of the environment.

One thing that stood out to me during this trip was the beautiful palm trees.

I’ve been to Florida a number of times and seen palm trees.

I’ve even seen them in numerous other places that I’ve traveled to.

But, for some reason I was deeply fascinated by them this time around…

I live in the midwest—Indianapolis to be exact.

We can’t grow palm trees where I’m from.

Palm trees flourish in warm, humid air…

But if you try planting them in the midwest, they won’t survive the cold. 

The soil, the climate, the ecosystem—it’s not the right environment.

It’s not that the trees are weak. They’re just in the wrong environment.

The same goes for us as leaders…

Just like trees, people are shaped by their surroundings. 

The environment you’re in—your relationships, your work, your community—can either nourish your growth or stunt it. 

If you’re feeling stuck—Maybe it’s where you’ve been planted.

You might have dreams, talents, or ideas that aren’t thriving—not because they’re flawed, but because the environment around you doesn’t support them. Whether it’s your job, your circle, or your routine, your surroundings play a huge role in your development.

Growth isn’t just about effort. It’s also about placement. 

The right environment can bring your potential to life.

The right environment can unlock capabilities you didn’t even know you had.

So don’t be afraid to seek the soil that suits you. You weren’t meant to thrive everywhere—you were meant to thrive somewhere.

You’ve gotta find where that somewhere is…

So if you’re feeling stuck, maybe it’s time to ask: Am I planted in the right place?

WAYS TO TAKE ACTION:

1. Assess your current environment

Look inwardly. Search outwardly. Identify things that may be stunting your growth or preventing you from making progress. (For example: Mindset, beliefs, habits, relationships, etc.)

• “What’s one thing in your environment that’s holding you back?”

• “What changes would help you thrive?”

2. Release what doesn’t fit you

Just like palm trees can’t survive in the cold, people won’t thrive in roles that don’t fit them. Take time to observe and ask:

• What things are you attempting to force in your life that truly don’t fit?

• What outdated ways of thinking or behaving are you trying to continue that no longer serve you?

3. Go where people are growing

• Find places to volunteer that share your passions and interests

• Connect with like-minded leaders and schedule regular meet-ups

• Join a community that helps you thrive in life (I’m opening up my mastermind group soon! If you’re interested reply to this email: I’M INTERESTED)

THE KEY: Surround yourself with individuals who are learning, evolving, and pushing forward in life. When you're around people who are committed to growth, it naturally challenges and inspires you to grow too. Your environment lifts you—or limits you—so choose one that moves you forward.