BecomingGolden

Written by Adv. Brownie Ebal.

Personal growth is not accidental—it is intentional. Over the past few years, The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell has become more than just a book to me. It is a framework I keep returning to as I navigate my journey in the legal profession. Here are my key takeaways from the book, and how each one has shaped my mindset, strategy, and growth as a legal professional.

1. The Law of Intentionality – Growth Doesn’t Just Happen

In the legal field, advancement is never accidental. I’ve learned to be deliberate about my growth—seeking mentorship, training, and complex matters that stretch my abilities.

2. The Law of Awareness – You Must Know Yourself to Grow Yourself

Understanding my strengths—be it advocacy, analysis, or negotiation—and being honest about my gaps allows me to position myself strategically in any organization.

3. The Law of the Mirror – You Must See Value in Yourself to Add Value to Yourself

Confidence is everything, especially in high-stakes environments. I have learned to acknowledge my value so I can own the room, add meaningful input, and lead with presence.

4. The Law of Reflection – Learning to Pause Allows Growth to Catch Up with You

I now schedule time to reflect on cases, decisions, and even missteps. That reflection sharpens my judgment and builds the kind of maturity needed at higher levels.

5. The Law of Consistency – Motivation Gets You Going, Discipline Keeps You Growing

Motivation fluctuates. But discipline—showing up, delivering excellence, and staying committed—is what has helped me earn trust from partners and senior leadership.

6. The Law of Environment – Growth Thrives in Conducive Surroundings

I seek rooms where people challenge me, not just cheer for me. Growth has accelerated when I am around bold thinkers and seasoned professionals who push me beyond my comfort zone.

7. The Law of Design – To Maximize Growth, Develop Strategies

I approach my career like I would any complex legal issue—with a well-thought-out strategy. Goals, timelines, and mentorship structures keep me aligned and progressing.

8. The Law of Pain – Good Management of Bad Experiences Leads to Growth

Tough clients. Missed deadlines. Performance feedback. I have learned to turn every hard moment into a stepping stone—not a stumbling block.

9. The Law of the Ladder – Character Growth Determines the Height of Your Personal Growth

In law, your integrity is everything. Character determines who gets invited into trusted, strategic conversations—and who gets quietly sidelined.

10. The Law of the Rubber Band – Growth Stops When You Lose the Tension Between Where You Are and Where You Could Be

I have become addicted to that stretch between comfort and challenge. Staying stretched is how I have made leaps others hesitated to take.

11. The Law of Trade-Offs – You Have to Give Up to Grow Up

I have had to say no to short-term comforts—certain social events, easier roles, even some friendships—to say yes to long-term growth and leadership.

12. The Law of Curiosity – Growth Is Stimulated by Asking Why

Asking “why” has helped me challenge stale practices and bring fresh insight into the legal teams I work with. Curiosity is not a weakness—it is a career advantage.

13. The Law of Modeling – It is Hard to Improve When You Have No One but Yourself to Follow.

Watching and learning from women and men I admire has been instrumental. I do not just follow their steps—I study their mindset, strategy, and presence.

14. The Law of Expansion – Growth Always Increases Your Capacity

With each new challenge I take on, I realize: I can handle more. Growth has expanded my professional range, and now I’m ready for greater leadership responsibilities.

15. The Law of Contribution – Growing Yourself Enables You to Grow Others

The real joy comes when I help officers, junior associates, interns, or colleagues find their own stride. Growth isn’t just personal—it becomes legacy.

Growth is not a one-time event; it is a lifelong journey. These laws continue to challenge me, stretch me, and shape the leader I am becoming. If you are looking to grow with intention, I highly recommend not just reading Maxwell’s book—but living it.