What would be your reaction if someone stated to you that you have become complacent? You’d probably become defensive and resentful. After all, it’s not true, you say. You’re working more, doing more and responsible for more than ever before. How could it possibly be said of you? Well hear this: defensiveness aside, you have become complacent. Don’t dismiss it—just listen.

By complacent, I mean satisfied and content. That means you’re living inside your comfort zone. In other words, you aren’t growing because growth opportunities, by definition, are outside your comfort zone. Doing more of what you already know in the same way you already do it leaves no opportunity to grow. All you’re doing is repeating what you already are comfortable with. No matter how good you are, if you aren’t growing, your stagnation will be your demise. What was distinctive yesterday is common today and lacking tomorrow. Taking on more of what you already know isn’t growing or expanding.

Instead, consider these:

• Ask for more responsibility in a certain area with a client
• Delegate something that you would normally do yourself
• Interact with a client about something you usually defer to someone else
• Contribute to an initiative in your firm where you could add value
• Take additional time when coaching someone
• Seek out a mentor and be committed to learn

The more seasoned you are, the more your opportunities to grow are within you. Consider these:

• Develop a characteristic or practice that you admire in someone else
• Reinforce a positive attitude in a situation where you usually falter
• Expand a relationship with a colleague, client or referral source
• Adopt a discipline that will serve you better
• Give the time your mentoring conversations deserve
• Take on a practice that will elevate your excellence

Be more. Be better. Grow and develop. Fight complacency with all your might. Grow your firm and grow yourself.