Ready, Steady, Grow! The Art and Science of Vertical Development

Beena SharmaCognitive, Integrative Metatheory, Intrapersonal, Perspectives, Psychology, Self-Identity, Video, What is human development? 1 Comment

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Perspective Shift:

  1. Vertical development goes beyond intellectual understanding; it requires embodying and living the principles of growth. True development involves integrating insights into daily life and continually practicing self-awareness and self-reflection.
  2. Self-awareness is not a destination, but a continuous journey. Recognizing that we are always evolving and that self-understanding deepens over time is key to our ongoing personal growth and transformation.
  3. Embracing complexity is essential for vertical development. Rather than simplifying or avoiding complex situations, viewing them as opportunities for deeper understanding and integration can lead to profound growth.
  4. Growth often involves holding and integrating paradoxical truths. Embracing the tension between opposing forces, such as autonomy and interdependence, leads to a more nuanced and holistic perspective.
 

“Vertical development is not a goal. It’s an outcome of the living process.”Beena Sharma

In this insightful conversation, Corey deVos and Beena Sharma explore the concept of vertical development and its importance in today’s world. Beena, with over 30 years of experience in the field, shares her journey and evolving understanding of vertical development.

The discussion covers several key areas:

  • The difference between horizontal and vertical development
  • Common challenges people face when growing into later stages of development
  • How vertical development can help address global challenges and metacrises
  • Practical advice and practices for fostering vertical development
  • The importance of polarity thinking in personal growth and understanding complex issues

Beena emphasizes that vertical development is not a goal but an outcome of how we live and make sense of the world. She stresses the importance of integrating earlier stages of development and warns against complacency or self-congratulation at later stages.

The conversation also touches on the application of vertical development to global issues, the role of AI in development, and the importance of having both power and perspective to effect change.

Beena introduces her VEDA training programs, which offer in-depth exploration of vertical development for personal growth and professional application. The dialogue concludes with an invitation to the Integral community to engage with these programs and continue their developmental journey. To learn more about these training opportunities, click here!

Throughout the discussion, Beena and Corey highlight the transformative potential of understanding and applying vertical development principles in various aspects of life and society.

 

Beena Sharma

About Beena Sharma

Beena Sharma is President of the Vertical Development Academy, and an international consultant committed to serving leaders and organizations in their growth endeavors. . Beena is a Certified MAP Scorer, Certified Leadership Maturity Coach and certifying Master Coach. Beena is a lead facilitator of the VeDA Coach Certification Program and consults with organizations interested in implementing vertical development. Beena is trained in Polarity Thinking at the Mastery level and integrates that expertise in her coaching and consulting practice.

Corey deVos

About Corey deVos

Corey W. deVos is editor and producer of Integral Life. He has worked for Integral Institute/Integal Life since Spring of 2003, and has been a student of integral theory and practice since 1996. Corey is also a professional woodworker, and many of his artworks can be found in his VisionLogix art gallery.

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