David Freund, Chief Leadership Officer at the Manufacturers Association of Central New York, recently reflected on the importance of intentional growth and exposure to new ideas in a commentary titled “It’s More Than Just Figs.”
Freund recounted an interview with Dr. Nido Qubein, President of High Point University, who said: “It’s not enough to say, ‘I like figs.’ The better question is, ‘Why do I like figs?’” According to Freund, Dr. Qubein explained his appreciation for figs came from being offered one in an environment where he could try something new. Freund emphasized that the lesson extends beyond personal taste: opportunities for growth often depend on seeking out environments that foster learning.
He wrote about the importance of not missing ideas or perspectives simply because one has not placed themselves in settings where they can encounter them. Freund stated that ongoing growth requires intentionally seeking exposure to different people and experiences.
Highlighting the accessibility of information today through podcasts, videos, and books, Freund posed a challenge: “Are we making good use of them?”
Quoting his mentor John Maxwell—“If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room”—Freund shared plans to attend a gathering of Maxwell Leadership coaches in Dallas next month. He described this as an investment in his own development by surrounding himself with others who are further along their journeys.
Freund encouraged readers to consider their own plans for learning and growth by asking questions such as:
– Where do you need to go?
– Who do you need to be around?
– What books do you need to read?
– What podcasts do you need to listen to?
– Do you have a plan?
He also noted personal preferences can only be discovered through experience: “Personally, I don’t like figs… But I do love mangoes — and I know that because I was once in a place where I could taste one.”
Freund concluded by sharing his commitment to continual learning over the coming months and promised that attendees at his classes would benefit from new insights he gains along the way.
The article ends with an invitation for readers interested in leadership development topics to subscribe to “The Next Shift: Where People and Performance Advance,” published by the Manufacturers Association of Central New York.
