Vow to Grow
- DFDarwoodWrites
- Mar 23
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 30
To vow is to make a solemn promise. Grow has a couple of definitions. Today, I'm referring to developing physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Quick Story
Sometimes, your entire life feels like a personal growth story. Growth often comes with discomfort—maybe even pain. But if we persevere, we can look back and see just how far we’ve come.
I started writing poetry years ago and even asked a colleague to illustrate for me. But I’ve always been a big-time lover of science fiction. When my son—now 18—was 8, he had grown bored with the adventure books he was reading. So, I set out to write a science fiction story just for him.
The only problem? I had no idea where to start. I didn’t understand story structure, and I wasn’t sure what made a story a true page-turner. So, I began researching how stories are mapped. My husband and I had long conversations that sparked ideas for characters. And every morning, I woke up around 4 a.m. to write—before anyone else could speak to me and interrupt the ideas that had “downloaded” in my sleep. I kept a notepad by my bed for those quiet, early moments.
It was long and often arduous work. I dove deep into articles, documentaries, and movies. I had to learn how to sustain a story through several chapters and keep it alive from beginning to end. I even had to bug friends to read the rough drafts! I had to finish.
By the time I completed the book, my son had grown older—around 12—and his interests had evolved. He wasn’t as engaged anymore. But did I stop there? No. I used everything I had learned to write the second book in the series.
What inspired me to keep going? An afterschool program chose my book for their book club and invited me to visit as an author. The children’s thoughtful questions sparked ideas for the next story. That experience encouraged me to write the second book.
Now, when I look back, I see how far I’ve come. Were those 4 a.m. writing sessions fun? Honestly, no. They were often uncomfortable. But in that discomfort, I was determined.
Today, children who read both books in the series have given me wonderful feedback. That keeps me going. I can say with confidence that I know how to map a complete story, weave in page-turning ideas, work with story editors, bug friends to read rough drafts, format a book, help design a cover, and self-publish science fiction stories.
I can even see my own growth between the first and second books. My brain has forged new pathways. And this process? It’s mine now.
Science So Far...
Scientist have found that the PGP - Personal Growth Process model is a way to understand how people grow and improve themselves over time. It’s the first official idea that tries to explain what happens when someone experiences personal growth. This model says that growing as a person depends a lot on your social environment—the people and places around you can either help you grow or hold you back. Personal growth takes time and includes things like becoming more aware of yourself, being open to new experiences, having the courage to deal with life’s challenges, feeling more in control of your own life, taking responsibility for your actions, and showing kindness to yourself and others. As people grow, they usually feel happier, more true to themselves, and more satisfied with life. Even though personal growth is a natural part of life, it works best when people feel safe and supported by those around them. That’s why it’s important for all of us to create communities that help people grow instead of stopping them.
Activity I've done before...
Write yourself a ‘Promise Letter’. Promise yourself to learn and grow every day; personally, financially, and spiritually. Now make a list of things you can do every day to learn and grow in those areas. Books, videos, classes, and groups can be a great start.
Quotes and Interpretations
Confucius Quotes Related to Personal Growth
It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.
Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.
The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.
When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don't adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.
Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.
Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance.
The more man meditates upon good thoughts, the better will be his world and the world at large.
The expectations of life depend upon diligence; the mechanic that would perfect his work must first sharpen his tools.
If I am walking with two other men, each of them will serve as my teacher. I will pick out the good points of the one and imitate them, and the bad points of the other and correct them in myself.
To see the right and not to do it is cowardice.
It is my intention to have this information to be a blessing to you.
Share with a friend.
We'll talk soon.
DF
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