Acknowledgments

This is tough to write. There are hundreds, probably thousands, of men and women who have helped us GROW. To name them individually would be impossible. Yet the type of growth we’re advocating is never a solo endeavor.

Our journey to grow began at home with parents who encouraged us to give our best—whatever we were doing. They wanted us to be all we could be. Then there were the teachers—at all levels—who did more than teach us the facts; they fueled our curiosity and challenged us to GROW. Then there were the managers and leaders who shaped us early in our careers—they were our exemplars for the necessity of learning. So are the mentors in our lives who continue to instruct and challenge us—too many to list by name!

We also must mention that The Ken Blanchard Companies and Chick-fil-A get it. Both of our companies have made the strategic bet that if people grow, the business will grow. That belief, combined with leadership that walks the talk, has contributed immensely to our individual growth.

Next, our families. Both of us have been blessed with wives who inspire us to keep learning and growing. We also have children who have joined us on the journey of lifelong learning. This is one of our greatest blessings.

There are a few people we do need to single out by name. Margery Allen and Renee Broadwell provided support behind the scenes that helped make this book possible. Finally, Martha Lawrence has given a gift to everyone who will read this book—her insights and immense talent made this a much better book!

To all of you who continue to encourage, inspire, and assist us as we GROW: Thank you!