Growing up, I attended magnet schools for art. The schools selected a specific number of students every year, and the classes were small. The fact our group classes were small created a healthy competition among us. In turn, this healthy competition elevated our skill sets.

Nothing demonstrated this better than class critiques. This event required each student to display and explain their work. Everyone had to stand in front of the class and listen as students evaluated and judged your work. After the students took their turn, the teachers gave their opinion.

At first, this was intimidating and frightening. There was nowhere to hide, and everyone knew your capabilities. Everyone held each other accountable to produce their best work.

Over time, however, each came to appreciate each other’s input because it improved our skills. This improvement was possible because we spent so much time together and learned each other’s strengths and weaknesses. More importantly, because each person was receptive to constructive criticism.

My schooling story reminds me of how we should all have advisors or brothers speaking truth into our lives. It may seem intimidating at first but when you invest the time in each other and are open to constructive feedback, each of you will grow exponentially.

Daily Directive:

Answer and Journal the Following

Read:

Read and meditate on Proverbs 15:31-33 for yourself. 

Pray:

Who are your trusted advisors or brothers?  Be real; be honest.

Meditate / Make It Real:

Pray and create a plan on how you will reach out to another man and foster a relationship of accountability.

Share / Show:

Share this with that fellow brother and have them hold you accountable.