Training in 2021

The Value of Investing in Yourself: A Game-Changer for Your Career in Construction

In the construction industry, we’re all familiar with the hard-hitting challenges of managing projects, ensuring quality, and maintaining safety on the job site. But there’s one critical aspect that often gets overlooked investing in yourself. If you’re like most professionals in this field, you might focus more on the technical side of the job: schedules, budgets, safety plans, and materials. But here’s the truth: if you’re not investing in sharpening your mind, the rest of it will fall short. Let me break it down for you.

Why You Might Be Missing the Mark

Too many people in construction limit themselves by thinking that technical knowledge and experience alone are the golden keys to success. While those are essential, they’re not enough to help you stay ahead in a constantly changing industry. The real question is: Are you investing in yourself enough to keep evolving?

One thing I see far too often is professionals stuck in the same place, unable to progress in their careers because they’ve neglected personal growth. If you’re stuck in the mindset that “I know what I’m doing; I don’t need more training,” you’re not just missing out on opportunities you’re holding yourself back.

The issue isn’t always your capability. It’s the lack of continual learning. Ignorance is the disease, and training is the cure. The construction industry is constantly evolving, and if you’re not investing in developing your skills, you will quickly find yourself being left behind.

The Misconception About Training: It’s Not Just for the “Weak” or “New”

Many people in construction see training as something for the “rookies” or “underperformers.” It’s a mistake to think that training is for those who are lacking in skills. I can’t stress this enough: training is for everyone. Personal development isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about growth, sharpening your tools, and staying sharp.

Here’s the reality: I personally spend around $30,000 every year on training. And yes, I have a family to support, 11 kids to be exact. But I prioritize investing in myself because it gives me a return that far outweighs any other expense. That $30,000 goes into everything from leadership courses and coaching to business certifications and personal development. The results have been life-changing for me, and it’s helped me share those lessons with others.

The Importance of Investment

I wasn’t always this focused on continuous development. When I first joined DPR Construction, I was lucky enough to be part of a company that offered a $5,000 training budget each year. That’s where my journey of investing in myself began. Over the years, I’ve gradually increased that amount because I saw the direct benefits it had not just on my career but also on the way I lead projects and teams.

Now, I’m not saying you need to spend $30,000 a year to be successful. But the key takeaway here is that you need to spend something. Whether it’s $500 or $5,000, what you put into learning will return tenfold in terms of success and personal satisfaction. When I first invested in courses like Tony Robbins’ “Unleash the Power Within,” I had no idea how much it would reshape my thinking. But I know for a fact it made me a more effective leader.

Why You Can’t Afford to Ignore Training

Here’s the real kicker: training is more than just about getting ahead. It’s about creating a life that feels fulfilling and purposeful. It’s about being able to show up in your life both professionally and personallyand do it with confidence and competence. The more you learn, the more you’ll enjoy your work, because you’ll feel empowered to take on the challenges that come your way.

Take my advice don’t let the negative voices stop you. We’ve all had that little voice in our head telling us we’re not good enough or that we’re stuck in our career. That voice is wrong. Don’t let it dictate your future. I’ve personally felt that voice creeping in, especially when things weren’t going well. But I learned to shut it down with knowledge and action.

How to Get Started with Investing in Yourself

So now that we’ve covered why investing in yourself is non-negotiable, let’s talk about how you can get started. There are multiple paths you can take to get that return on investment, and I’m going to give you a few practical ways to kick off your training journey.

1. Pick Training Programs That Matter
   The first step is identifying what skills you need to develop. Are you looking to improve your leadership skills? Consider enrolling in courses on coaching or emotional intelligence. Want to sharpen your technical skills? Explore certifications in Lean construction or Last Planner systems.
2. Commit to Continuous Learning
   Investing in yourself isn’t a one-time thing. Commit to spending a portion of your yearly salary on learning and development. If you can afford it, think about dedicating $500-$5,000 annually to build your skills.
3. Find Mentorship
   Surround yourself with those who have been in the field longer than you. Mentors can help you navigate the challenges and provide wisdom that you can’t get from books or courses alone. Ask for help, seek advice, and embrace the power of learning from others.
4. Use Books and Audiobooks
   In addition to formal training, reading is one of the easiest ways to invest in yourself. Books like “This Is Lean” by Niklas Modig and “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries can transform the way you approach problems in construction.
5. Utilize Free Resources
   There are countless online resources, such as podcasts, webinars, and YouTube videos, that can provide immense value. Stay proactive and keep learning on your own time.

The Personal Investment Equation

At this point, you might be thinking, “I get it, but why does this really matter?” Here’s where the rubber meets the road. When you invest in yourself, you’re creating a competitive advantage for your career and personal growth. You’re equipping yourself with tools and strategies that set you apart from others in the industry.

Here’s why investing in yourself matters so much:

• Stay Competitive: Construction is a competitive field. The more you invest in your skills and knowledge, the more valuable you become to your team and company.
• Build Confidence: Continuous learning builds confidence. You’ll be ready to tackle problems with more clarity and a bigger toolbox of solutions.
• Stay Motivated: Learning keeps you engaged. The moment you stop investing in your growth, your motivation and passion begin to wane.
• Increase Earning Potential: The more you know and the more you can do, the more you can command in your salary and job opportunities.

 Take Charge of Your Future

I want to leave you with this: You are your best investment. If you’re not investing in yourself, you’re holding yourself back from reaching your full potential. The construction industry is evolving, and to stay relevant, you must evolve with it.

Here’s a quote by Jason Schroeder: “Success is not measured by the number of hours you work but by the value you bring to every task, relationship, and team you touch.”

Now go out and make it happen don’t wait for the perfect moment to start investing in yourself. The perfect moment is now.

FAQ Section

Q1: What is the best way to start investing in myself?
Start by identifying your weaknesses and choosing training or courses that address those areas. Whether it’s leadership skills, technical knowledge, or emotional intelligence, there’s always room for growth.

Q2: How can I afford to invest in myself if my budget is tight?
Investing in yourself doesn’t have to be expensive. You can start with low-cost options like books, audiobooks, or free online resources. Gradually increase your investment as your career progresses.

Q3: How can I find the right mentor?
Look for someone whose career you admire and approach them for advice. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn from those who have been in the industry longer than you.

Q4: How can Elevate Construction help with my personal development?
We offer superintendent coaching, project support, and leadership development services that focus on helping you stabilize, schedule, and flow in your construction projects.

Q5: What are the benefits of investing in leadership training?
Leadership training helps you understand your role in the larger picture, improve your communication skills, and develop strategies for leading successful teams. It equips you with the tools to tackle challenges and guide your team effectively.