{"id":11067,"date":"2025-07-05T15:18:27","date_gmt":"2025-07-05T19:18:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/?post_type=article&#038;p=11067"},"modified":"2025-10-05T21:59:36","modified_gmt":"2025-10-06T01:59:36","slug":"from-novice-to-leader","status":"publish","type":"article","link":"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/en\/article\/from-novice-to-leader\/","title":{"rendered":"[Workplace Habits] Series \u278a From Novice to Leader"},"content":{"rendered":"<iframe loading=\"lazy\" width=\"400\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/X2omwqjeqzo?si=-r_upOtv9_s4stpT\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<p>Good habits are the foundation of success. In the workplace, strong habits provide powerful support for achieving career goals. That\u2019s why motivated professionals across various industries strive to cultivate habits that promote career growth. And yet, many find that while the desire is there, the follow-through is lacking. So how can we break through this barrier?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After guiding readers through kingdom-minded leadership in the series Kingdom Leadership (see Stewardship sections in Issues 63\u201366), Coach Jacky Chen now launches a new series: Workplace Heart Habits. This new journey takes kingdom-minded professionals one step further\u2014cultivating the inner habits needed to grow from a workplace novice to a true leader.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>May you and I take this inside-out journey to explore deeply, discover practical ways, and experience real transformation. Along the way, may we join him in discovering that work can be a process of uncovering life\u2019s meaning, igniting passion, and living out one\u2019s calling\u2014where joy can truly be found in what we do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Finding Life\u2019s Meaning Through Work<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>No matter the field or industry, whether you are a newcomer, a manager, or a business owner, most professionals hope to achieve better performance and greater results. To reach this goal, there are typically three common approaches:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Determined Action: Repeatedly telling oneself\u2014\u201cAs long as I keep trying, I will eventually succeed!\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Gritty Perseverance: Pushing forward despite difficulties, even when it takes everything just to keep going.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Checkpoint Accountability: Tracking daily progress by clocking in, using it as a way to monitor and stay accountable for personal growth in various areas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These methods may seem effective, but once put into practice, many find the results disappointing. Why is that? And how can we overcome it? Through over thirty years of work experience, I\u2019ve discovered that there are four key stages in professional growth:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Entering the Workplace: Understanding your responsibilities and tasks, developing skills, and gaining clarity about your role and identity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Striving Upward: Gaining experience, achieving better results, and climbing to higher positions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Leading a Team: Stepping into a managerial role as the guide and mission-driver for the team.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Passing on the Mission: Leading your team in passing the mission to the next generation.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>This series will review, reflect on, and look ahead to each step of the career journey upward\u2014exploring the meaning and value of life from both practical and faith-based perspectives, ultimately leading to a transformation from novice to leader.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Everyone wants to keep improving, but time and again we find that no matter how determined we are or how many times we clock in, the good habits that actually stick are few and far between. As the Scripture says, \u201cFor I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.\u201d Gritting our teeth for a month might work\u2014but what about three years? Five years? A lifetime? Even more discouraging is the reality that bosses and companies often care only about performance and results, with little regard for the effort we\u2019ve put in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To break out of this dilemma, we need to approach the problem from a different angle and ask: How can we discover our passion, purpose, and core values through our work? Let\u2019s begin by asking four key questions, examining our lives from four important dimensions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol style=\"list-style-type:upper-roman\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Passion: What do I truly love deep inside, and why do I enjoy this work?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Strength: What am I good at in my work, and why do others see me as valuable?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Income: In my department or industry, why do others respect and recognize me\u2014and what makes them willing to pay me a salary?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Social Need: Why does society need the services of my profession, and why does it need the unique contribution I bring?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>The intersection of these four areas forms the core values of one\u2019s career. These core values influence not only our work and daily habits, but also the direction of our professional growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The intersection of what you love and what you\u2019re good at is called Passion\u2014when you\u2019re passionate about your work, you can pour yourself into it joyfully, even under great pressure. Mission arises from the overlap between what you love and what the world needs\u2014recognizing that you are needed strengthens your sense of purpose. Profession refers to the area in which you have expertise and are paid for your skills. Vocation is the role or position that both meets a social need and provides income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Different professions may have different characteristics, but in every job position, it is possible to discover your own passion, sense of mission, professional expertise, and vocation. The integration of these four aspects reveals the true meaning of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many people focus only on whether a job offers good income, returns, or ease of performance. May God help us shift our perspective\u2014to reexamine our careers through the lenses of passion, mission, profession, and vocation. This renewed outlook can lead to greater growth and future development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take myself as an example. Through self-reflection and professional assessments, I discovered that I truly enjoy learning and growing together with others\u2014that is my passion. I\u2019m good at teaching and integrating ideas. In my work at a computer company, my skills were recognized, and I received a stable income. As for the \u201cneeds of the world,\u201d I realized that many people long for love and care, and I feel called to make a difference in that area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By integrating these four aspects, I discovered my personal core value: to love\u2014by learning and growing alongside others, and using my strengths to serve them. I have also committed to living out this value in both my work and daily life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I hope that every professional can examine their career through these four lenses, rise above challenges, stand out from the crowd, and be equipped to lead their team in fulfilling its mission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Four Stages of Career Growth: Progress Without Limits<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>With each job transition, a professional\u2019s career development should follow an upward spiral. Below is a brief introduction to the four stages of career growth, which will be explored in more detail in the following articles. (See diagram below)<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"757\" height=\"516\" src=\"https:\/\/vkl.umo.mybluehost.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-4\u968e\u6bb5-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11073\" style=\"width:683px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-4\u968e\u6bb5-1.png 757w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-4\u968e\u6bb5-1-300x204.png 300w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-4\u968e\u6bb5-1-50x34.png 50w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-4\u968e\u6bb5-1-18x12.png 18w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-4\u968e\u6bb5-1-400x273.png 400w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-4\u968e\u6bb5-1-600x409.png 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 757px) 100vw, 757px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>1. \u201cEntering the Workplace\u201d Stage: Understand your identity, strengths, and abilities within this specific work environment. Use this as a starting point to guide your continuous growth. Also, take time to get to know the people around you and seek support from mentors, friends, supervisors, and career advisors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2. Entering the \u201cStriving Upward\u201d Stage: Focus on the following three areas\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>From Efficiency to Effectiveness: Many people are skilled at improving work efficiency, but that doesn't always lead to meaningful results.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Self to Team: Many professionals excel when working independently, but often face communication barriers\u2014and even conflict\u2014when collaborating within a team.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From Pain to Joy: Work is not just about making a living\u2014it\u2019s also about pursuing inner fulfillment and joy. What\u2019s essential is discovering your true motivation and purpose.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>From the \u201cFour Stages of Career Growth\u201d diagram, we can see that on a personal level, it\u2019s important to find a platform in the workplace where you can exercise your influence. At higher stages of one\u2019s career, the focus shifts to learning how to lead a team\u2014transitioning from a capable individual contributor to a true leader.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>3. \u201cLeading a Team\u201d Stage: Leverage your influence and team leadership skills to help your organization solve problems. At the same time, begin considering a second career path. While leading a team, continue developing your cross-disciplinary (\u201cslash\u201d) skills to prepare for the second half of your life journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>4. \u201cPassing on the Mission\u201d Stage: Focus on fostering the continuation of the mission\u2014not just by transferring skills, but by igniting passion in those who will carry it forward. The goal is for successors to take up not only the work, but also the torch burning in our hearts. When we achieve this, we have truly exercised our influence and fulfilled our life\u2019s mission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Building Good Habits from the Heart<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>In the workplace, there is a strong emphasis on time management and habit formation. Many professionals believe that if they can manage their time well, they can manage everything. However, time planning and habit-building are only surface-level solutions. To sustain effective time management in the long run, it takes more than just cultivating efficient and healthy habits\u2014we must also uncover the decisive factor: Who am I, really?<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"524\" height=\"482\" src=\"https:\/\/vkl.umo.mybluehost.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u7fd2\u6163\u7531\u5fc3\u767c\u51fa.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11074\" srcset=\"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u7fd2\u6163\u7531\u5fc3\u767c\u51fa.png 524w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u7fd2\u6163\u7531\u5fc3\u767c\u51fa-300x276.png 300w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u7fd2\u6163\u7531\u5fc3\u767c\u51fa-50x46.png 50w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u7fd2\u6163\u7531\u5fc3\u767c\u51fa-13x12.png 13w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u7fd2\u6163\u7531\u5fc3\u767c\u51fa-400x368.png 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 524px) 100vw, 524px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The course of a person\u2019s life flows from the heart. When the inner life is transformed, the outer life will change as well\u2014shaping work habits and the way time is managed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, many professionals see work as nothing more than a burdensome chore. After finishing their studies, they dive headfirst into the workforce, only to be overwhelmed by the pressure of providing for a family. In daily tasks, the goal becomes not just to perform well, but to avoid mistakes\u2014doing only what is required. The ideal job, in their minds, is simple: fewer tasks, more pay, and close to home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If one works only for the sake of retirement (not working), then subconsciously, the very thought of work will feel burdensome. With such a mindset, trying to develop positive and proactive workplace habits will inevitably be an uphill battle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let us try viewing work and life from a different perspective\u2014an inside-out approach that helps us discover meaning in both. By uncovering our passion and sense of mission through our work, we can turn work into a journey of fulfillment and a path to true purpose in life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To successfully build habits that support career growth, we must first undergo an internal shift\u2014from bitterness to sweetness\u2014and that transformation begins with understanding our true identity. Though the pressures of work remain, a new life is stirred within, renewing our minds and transforming our perspectives. This allows us to see the good, pleasing, and perfect meaning of life, which in turn reshapes our habits and actions from the inside out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When habits flow from the heart, they carry the power to bring real change.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"758\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/vkl.umo.mybluehost.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u7ba1\u5bb6p15\u5716-758x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11077\" style=\"width:692px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u7ba1\u5bb6p15\u5716-758x1024.jpg 758w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u7ba1\u5bb6p15\u5716-222x300.jpg 222w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u7ba1\u5bb6p15\u5716-768x1037.jpg 768w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u7ba1\u5bb6p15\u5716-50x68.jpg 50w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u7ba1\u5bb6p15\u5716-1138x1536.jpg 1138w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u7ba1\u5bb6p15\u5716-9x12.jpg 9w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u7ba1\u5bb6p15\u5716-400x540.jpg 400w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u7ba1\u5bb6p15\u5716-600x810.jpg 600w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u7ba1\u5bb6p15\u5716.jpg 1422w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 758px) 100vw, 758px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Would you like to rise above the waves in a fiercely competitive workplace? Start by cultivating good habits from the heart \u2014 your journey from rookie to leader begins here.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ask \u201cWhy\u201d \u2014 and discover what you truly love<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>To develop habits that truly support career growth, the key is not sheer willpower, but caring for the soul. This begins with understanding yourself and finding the right place to grow from. From there, continue learning and building step by step\u2014cultivating new habits that flow from deep within the heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Among the four dimensions of self-understanding, it\u2019s essential to identify how your passion connects with your life and work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By thoughtfully reflecting on each aspect of our work, we may discover that what we love can, in some way, be connected to both our job and our life. For example, I personally enjoy exchanging ideas with others and growing together through learning. This passion is directly related to my work\u2014and deeply tied to my inner joy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When we discover something deep within our hearts that we both love and are good at\u2014something the world truly needs and for which we can earn a living\u2014we begin to see clearly our own life\u2019s meaning and value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Renowned leadership expert Simon Sinek introduced the concept of the Golden Circle, emphasizing that we should start with \u201cWhy.\u201d He observed that what sets great leaders\u2014such as Apple\u2019s founder Steve Jobs and civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.\u2014apart from the average person is that they begin by asking \u201cWhy.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most people tend to start with \u201cWhat\u201d\u2014they look at the resources at hand and focus on what needs to be done, concentrating on the visible, immediate tasks. Some go a step further and consider \u201cHow\u201d\u2014how to do things well, how to succeed, and how to achieve results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sinek believes that the question which truly shapes a person\u2019s sense of life purpose and work effectiveness is \u201cWhy.\u201d Once we answer the \u201cWhy\u201d and take action in line with what we love, it unleashes tremendous motivation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take Apple and Dell as an example: both companies produce computers, but the key difference lies in their core values.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dell\u2019s core value centers on a specific product\u2014computers. The company has focused solely on producing computers and has consistently stayed within that product category. Apple, on the other hand, pursues innovation. From its early days, Apple set out to \u201ccreate products that would impact generations and inspire inner passion.\u201d As a result, it has expanded beyond computers to develop wireless earbuds, iPads, smartphones, and more. What all these products share is a drive to spark users\u2019 creativity and a pursuit of excellence. Apple\u2019s passion for innovation is reflected in every product it creates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Different values shape different companies\u2014and different values also shape entirely different lives. That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to dig deep and uncover your truest passion, then commit yourself to it. How can you discover your passion? Try imagining this: if you retired today and no longer needed to work for a living, what would you still want to do? That could be a clue pointing toward what you love\u2014and it may help you answer the question, \u201cWhy do I work?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take myself as an example\u2014if I were to retire today, I would still enjoy discussing new ideas with friends, learning together, and growing side by side. Being a lifelong learner is my passion. When passion is integrated with work, work becomes more than just an external task\u2014it becomes something deeply connected to the innermost desires of the heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In both life and work, we still need to consider the \u201cHow\u201d and the \u201cWhat,\u201d but the foundation lies in discovering and focusing on the passion deep within our hearts. This is the inner force that continually drives us forward\u2014it is the source of true motivation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ask \u201cWhat am I good at?\u201d \u2014 and discover your strengths.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A strength is something you can do well. But knowing your strengths also requires understanding your personal traits. For example, if you enjoy interacting with people, you might be well-suited for marketing or sales; if you love working with numbers, a technical role might be a better fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How can you discover your personal traits? Tools I have personally used\u2014and often recommend to friends and students\u2014include the Gallup StrengthsFinder, the StandOut strengths assessment, and the MBTI personality test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the process of identifying your strengths, it\u2019s important to stay focused and not chase every trend. The key is to be honest with yourself while also humbly seeking feedback from colleagues and mentors. Be careful not to label certain traits as simply strengths or weaknesses\u2014see them instead as characteristics. Each person\u2019s characteristics are unique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You might wonder: is identifying personal strengths really that important? The story of Tian Ji\u2019s horse racing strategy offers a vivid answer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During the Warring States period, nobles in the state of Qi often enjoyed horse racing. Horses were ranked into three categories based on speed: top, middle, and lower tiers. General Tian Ji frequently raced against the King of Qi but kept losing. Later, after receiving strategic advice, he changed his approach. He matched his lowest-tier horse against the king\u2019s top-tier horse and lost, as expected. But then he used his top-tier horse to race the king\u2019s middle-tier horse\u2014and won. Finally, he raced his middle-tier horse against the king\u2019s lowest-tier horse\u2014and won again. In the end, Tian Ji won the match by a score of 2 to 1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our abilities, too, can be seen as having different levels. In the workplace, it\u2019s important to find your unique position\u2014not by trying to outperform others in every area, but by focusing on your strengths and leveraging them to succeed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ask \u201cHow\u201d \u2014 and discover how to earn a living<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Peter Drucker, the father of modern management, introduced a powerful idea: managing oneself\u2014being the CEO of your own life. He emphasized that in a world where every industry is rapidly changing due to technological advancements, professionals must learn to manage themselves. Effective self-management begins with accurately assessing your inner value, strengths, and unique position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Drucker recommended the following steps for effective self-management:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Observation: Understand how you learn best\u2014are you more effective through listening, reading, or through discussion and interaction?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Planning: Create a plan for your future. Who do you want to become in three months, three years, or five years?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Forecasting: Write down your goals. What specific objectives do you hope to achieve in three months or five months?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Feedback: Regularly track and record your progress. Invite others to observe your growth and provide honest, practical feedback. This helps you assess whether your previous forecasts were accurate and better informs your next round of planning and forecasting. By faithfully following these four steps, you can learn to manage yourself the way one manages a company\u2014constantly optimizing and growing in ability. Of course, the most important foundation is still discovering your passion\u2014uncovering the true inner motivation and strengths that drive you. Only then will self-management be truly effective. And as your abilities improve, so will the value others are willing to pay for your work.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ask \u201cWhat to do\u201d \u2014 and discover what the world needs from me.<\/h4>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vkl.umo.mybluehost.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11075\" style=\"width:579px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Laying bricks or building a cathedral? How you answer the question \u201cWhat are you doing?\u201d reveals your true ambition and motivation.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Some people might say, \u201cI\u2019m just an ordinary worker, like a screw in a machine\u2014my presence or absence doesn\u2019t really matter.\u201d But in fact, how you answer the question \u201cWhat are you doing?\u201d reveals your true inner ambition, motivation, and the impact you can have on society. Consider the following story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Someone walked past a construction site and asked three workers what they were doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first worker replied, \u201cI\u2019m laying bricks.\u201d\nThe second said, \u201cI\u2019m building a house.\u201d\nBut the third worker answered, \u201cI\u2019m constructing the most beautiful cathedral in the city.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ten years later, the first worker was still laying bricks.\nThe second had become a construction site contractor.\nAnd the third had become an architect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the story, the first worker was simply doing a job, with little motivation or expectation\u2014laying bricks day after day, unchanged over the years. The second worker had interest and vision for the building itself, so he didn\u2019t stay at bricklaying; years later, he became a site contractor. The third worker had an even greater dream\u2014not just to lay bricks or build a structure, but to be part of creating the most beautiful cathedral. He connected his work to a larger vision, and over time, he grew into an architect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Work is first and foremost a means of making a living, but it also calls for deeper reflection: What kind of impact will my work make? Why does the world need me to do this particular job and serve this specific group of people? Once these questions are answered, your inner motivation changes\u2014and so do the outcomes you create through your work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Throughout my career, I often reflect on my motivation, assess my abilities and strengths, and commit to continuous learning\u2014expanding my knowledge and preparing for the next wave in my industry. My goal is to advance step by step to the next stage of my career, where I can help more people. Ultimately, I hope that through my efforts and collaboration with others, we can grow together in meaningful relationships and serve those in need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At every stage of a professional career, self-management is essential. With the help of effective assessment tools\u2014and the support of friends and mentors\u2014we can repeatedly engage in observation, planning, forecasting, and feedback to deepen our self-awareness and track our growth over time. Through this process, we discover what we love and what we\u2019re good at, gaining clarity about our strengths, value, and life purpose. Work then becomes more than just the daily grind of \u201claying bricks\u201d\u2014it transforms into a joyful journey of steady progress and continual growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the next article, I will further explore time management, habit formation, and how to discover your passion through your strengths. Feel free to get in touch:<a href=\"mailto:de*********@***il.com\" data-original-string=\"f68nQEBEL\/296gg5vAf8Kw==06eTMMh6OsV1MYOHbkYX6XxwCoXCOeFY8Db+Jv3knIhJb0=\" title=\"This contact has been encoded by Anti-Spam by CleanTalk. Click to decode. To finish the decoding make sure that JavaScript is enabled in your browser.\"><span \n                data-original-string='glKcXKQ+rshSKcLtvjtqWA==06etSESOaCxbGPP+61J3jnEFW53\/HTzFZXBeBmKBn7JKuU='\n                class='apbct-email-encoder'\n                title='This contact has been encoded by Anti-Spam by CleanTalk. Click to decode. To finish the decoding make sure that JavaScript is enabled in your browser.'>de<span class=\"apbct-blur\">*********<\/span>@<span class=\"apbct-blur\">***<\/span>il.com<\/span>.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Think and act:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Which stage of the Four Stages of Career Growth do you think you're currently in? What challenges are you facing? In what areas do you see room for growth?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">What insights has Peter Drucker\u2019s concept of self-management given you? What actions do you plan to take to put this idea into practice?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-theme-palette-2-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-theme-palette-2-background-color has-background is-style-wide\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>Coach Jacky Chen is the Chief Cloud Architect at Oracle and holds a Master\u2019s degree in Leadership. He is a certified life coach trained by Dr. BJ Fogg of Stanford University and holds an Executive Leadership certificate from MIT. Currently, he serves as a leadership coach with xLead, a guest lecturer for the International True Love Family Association, and a board member of KRC.\n\nCoach Chen\u2019s personal signature is T.E.A.\u2014Tiny steps, Enjoyable process, and Action-oriented living. He is the author of Discover Your Leadership and Workplace Heart Habits.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"540\" height=\"740\" src=\"https:\/\/vkl.umo.mybluehost.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u66f8\u5f71.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11069\" style=\"width:485px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u66f8\u5f71.png 540w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u66f8\u5f71-219x300.png 219w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u66f8\u5f71-50x69.png 50w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u66f8\u5f71-9x12.png 9w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/\u8077\u5834-\u66f8\u5f71-400x548.png 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>New book recommendations <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Workplace Habits from the Heart<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Coach Jacky Chen\u2019s Latest Work<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start with the heart\u2014discover your own unique career map!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Jointly endorsed by Elder Fred Lin, former Chairman and CEO of Payless Car Rental and advisor to this publication, and Elder Elaine Kung, founder and president of Call To Work and featured guest in our Kingdom Professionals series.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Please contact major Christian bookstores in North America and Taiwan, or visit the Grace Publishing website. (<a href=\"https:\/\/graceph.com\/product\/59v002\/\">https:\/\/graceph.com\/product\/59v002\/<\/a>) to order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/graceph.com\/product\/59v002\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"111\" height=\"111\" src=\"https:\/\/vkl.umo.mybluehost.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/QR-code\u8077\u5834\u5fc3\u7fd2\u6163-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11081\" srcset=\"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/QR-code\u8077\u5834\u5fc3\u7fd2\u6163-1.jpg 111w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/QR-code\u8077\u5834\u5fc3\u7fd2\u6163-1-50x50.jpg 50w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/QR-code\u8077\u5834\u5fc3\u7fd2\u6163-1-12x12.jpg 12w, https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/QR-code\u8077\u5834\u5fc3\u7fd2\u6163-1-100x100.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 111px) 100vw, 111px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>\u597d\u7fd2\u6163\uff0c\u662f\u6210\u529f\u7684\u57fa\u77f3\uff1b\u8077\u5834\u4e0a\u7684\u597d\u7fd2\u6163\uff0c\u80fd\u70ba\u5be6\u73fe\u8077\u696d\u76ee\u6a19\u63d0\u4f9b\u6709\u529b\u652f\u63f4\u3002\u70ba\u6b64\uff0c\u76f8\u4fe1\u5404\u7a2e\u884c&#8230;<\/p>","protected":false},"author":42,"featured_media":11155,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"give_campaign_id":0,"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":""},"issue":[288],"section":[86],"class_list":["post-11067","article","type-article","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","issue-issue-79","section-kingdom-stewardship"],"acf":[],"taxonomy_info":{"issue":[{"value":288,"label":"79\u671f"}],"section":[{"value":86,"label":"\u795e\u570b\u7ba1\u5bb6 Kingdom Stewardship"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/e-krc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Novice-to-Leader_article-banner_tw.png",1000,400,false],"author_info":{"display_name":"\u9673\u5fb7\u5805","author_link":"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/en\/author\/jacky-chen\/"},"comment_info":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/article\/11067","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/article"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/article"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/42"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11155"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11067"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"issue","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/issue?post=11067"},{"taxonomy":"section","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/e-krc.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/section?post=11067"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}