It’s not what happens to you in life – but what you do with what happens to you. We do have a CHOICE as to how we respond, and the choices we make have an impact on our effectiveness. This is a guiding philosophy/principle we discuss often in our leadership development programmes. I was reminded of the importance of this recently when attending the graduation of Project K students in Auckland. One of the students lost their mentor half way through the programme, through an overseas work assignment. Instead of giving up due to lack of support he reflected on his situation and made the choice to act on the following two points:
- Ask yourself regularly – Who do I look up to in the way of role models? How important is this to me?
- Don’t rely on others to help you achieve your goals – instead remind yourself that you are the key to making it happen!
He went on to achieve all his goals without the support and encouragement of a mentor and wowed us all when he presented the above learnings and the wisdom he had gained through his own reflection.
Note: Project K is a youth development organisation working with 14-15 years old with a focus around maximising potential. My association with Project K is in the role of a mentor – working with students for a 12 month period to support the in goal setting and achievement. For more information on mentoring in your area visit www.projectk.org.nz
