I wasn't too sure what I was going to get out of the course beforehand; in fact, I was daunted by the thought of three weeks with ten new people. Immediately I knew it would be intense. I've learnt lessons no school could teach. For example, the importance of teamwork: if a team does not co-operate or work together, and that means everyone on board, the time spent together will be unpleasant and tasks will be inefficiently carried out. This can be applied to real life.
I was most proud when our raft-building didn't go to plan and two barrels fell out, but the team didn't lose spirit and continued. Morning wake-up was challenging, as we were generally very tired from the day before. If the deadline was missed, so was breakfast! Leadership was also challenging as was choosing a leader, because the group had several strong characters. As a team we improved our co-operation by accepting each other's strengths and weaknesses and making compromises.
Most challenging was the first time we did the challenge wall - everyone had ideas but it was a case of working on them 'til we had the solution.
I feel the area I need to improve on most is analysing team members before allocating appropriate roles, instead of when leading to it. From observing, I've learnt that listening is very important, ensuring all ideas are put forward.
Outward Bound® has highlighted why certain essential life skills, such as communication, team-building, etc, are so important. Getting on with others I now deem as essential. A valuable three weeks, which words cannot describe and most definitely life-changing and unforgettable. The course has in many ways prepared me for the real world, highlighting shadows previously overlooked and I am grateful for this.
The thing I will remember most is finishing a 40-kilometre expedition and sighting a beautiful beach that we would be camping on; it showed how hard work and teamwork pay off.
My thanks go to Outward Bound® and the Outward Bound Association and all of the staff who made the experience so special. Thank you to my parents for supporting me and most importantly the 'Campbell Clan', the team I sadly left behind.
The Facts
- Age 15
- Outward Bound Course - The Classic (August 2006)
The Outward Bound® blog is made up from 'My Outward Bound stories', written by participants of Outward Bound courses, and a provides a real insight into Outward Bound from a participants point of view
Comments
Great site! Is it Yosemite national park on the top of your blog?
Hi Tim, many thanks for your comments. I'm not sure where the picture of the hikers is taken, if you recognise it, please let me know the location and what it's like to hike there!