Building a Growth Mindset: How Non Work-Related Team Conversations Spark Productivity and Synergy

In our pursuit of personal and professional growth, we often find ourselves trapped in the relentless cycle of busyness. We work long hours, tackle numerous tasks, and strive to be productive. But, how often do we take time to pause and reflect on whether all of the activities we undertake in the workplace are truly propelling us towards our goals?

When I began my SVP of Growth role at the Association of National Advertisers I was blessed with a fantastic, high-performing team to lead. In the spirit of nurturing my most important resources, I wanted to incorporate team-building activities into our work life to encourage a shared growth mindset. To that end, we started a new tradition of hosting bi-weekly Thursday team huddles to share ideas about growth, while purposefully avoiding work-related topics. These 30-minute sessions have sparked intriguing dialog and are often inspired by books we have read, podcast episodes, life events, and other musings shared by our team members or myself. These non work-related conversations have opened up a new channel of communication that provides a safe-space allowing members to share their experiences, thoughts, feelings and dreams brining us all closer together.

A Year-Long Misogi Challenge

During our first official growth team huddle we discussed the Japanese concept of Misogi. At the Association of National Advertisers (ANA), we don't just talk the talk; we walk the walk when it comes to growth. As part of our commitment to personal and professional development, we embarked on a transformative journey—a year-long Misogi challenge.

What Is a Misogi Challenge?

Derived from Japanese tradition, a Misogi is a challenging and transformative experience that pushes individuals beyond their comfort zones. It's a journey of self-discovery, growth, and resilience. As a team, we decided to embrace this concept, and support each other throughout the year as we make progress, sometimes stumble, trip and get back up again.

The ANA Growth Team Misogi Challenge

Our Misogi challenge is a year-long commitment to personal growth and well-being. Each member of the Growth Team set personal goals, focusing on areas they wanted to improve in their lives. These goals spanned a wide spectrum, reflecting our team's diverse aspirations:

1. Eating Healthier: Some team members chose to overhaul their diets, focusing on consuming nutritious foods that fuel their bodies and minds.
2. Fitness and Well-being: Others embarked on fitness journeys, dedicating time to exercise and improve their physical health.
3. Communication Skills: Some team members prioritized becoming more assertive communicators, not only in the workplace but also in their personal lives.
4. Professional Development: Recognizing the importance of continuous learning, several team members committed to expanding their professional skill set, pursuing certifications, or acquiring new industry knowledge.

Why a Misogi Challenge?

Our decision to undertake this challenge was rooted in the belief that personal growth leads to professional growth. By supporting each other's journeys toward healthier living, improved communication, and greater fitness, we knew we would become a stronger and more cohesive team.

The Power of Accountability

One of the key drivers of our future success in the Misogi challenge will be accountability. Regular check-ins and open discussions about our progress and challenges will create a supportive and motivating environment. When one team member faces a setback, the others rally behind them with encouragement and advice.

Building Resilience

The Misogi challenge has taught us resilience. As we pursue our goals, we encounter obstacles and setbacks. But instead of giving up, we've learned to adapt and persevere. This newfound resilience has spilled over into our professional lives, enabling us to tackle challenges at work with a fresh perspective.

Strengthening Bonds

Perhaps the most unexpected outcome of our Misogi challenge has been the strengthening of bonds within our team. We've come to know each other on a deeper level, celebrating each other's victories and providing unwavering support during tough times. These bonds have translated into a more harmonious and collaborative work environment.

Fresh Perspectives, Innovative Solutions

The personal growth we've experienced has also influenced our approach to work. We bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table, inspired by the transformations we're undergoing individually. ANA's Growth Team is more dynamic, creative, and adaptable than ever before.

Join Us on the Journey

As we continue our year-long Misogi challenge, we invite you to join us on this inspiring journey of growth. Whether you're looking to improve your health, enhance your communication skills, or pursue any other personal or professional goal, remember that growth is a continuous process that requires consistent effort and steadfast support.

At ANA, we believe in the power of challenging ourselves, supporting one another, and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. Together, we're not just growing as individuals; we're growing as a team, and we're excited to see where this transformative journey will lead us next.

Stay tuned for more updates on our Misogi challenge, and let's embark on a path of growth and resilience together.