NLP Week 9 26th November 2008

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The Heroes Journey, what inspires you and your attitudes?

Paired off (only 9 in class again so was with tutor) and talked about something that was similar in nature.

I spoke about getting the Golden Grail of the FHEA (Fellow in Higher Education Academy), which involved many years of battling areas of knowledge that I lacked and also having people come alongside to support me. The journey was made through changes in tactics were needed at times and a good mentor in the form of my wife/professional development staff, online manager and head of dept. The stepping stones were HAY Job scheme evaluation in 2005 which turned me from a simple ‘gofer’ technician into a hybrid technical/academic ‘per excellence’. This transformation felt like after that, I just needed to force myself through the paper work, and grind the application out like modelled clay. The end result was 3 years later in July 2008 but waiting for the right moment required many different attributes, skills and talents.

We also looked at what inspires us. Stories, people’s challenges and life itself! I am inspired by those around me that are battling through hard times and endurance, but don’t mention the Tough Guy race! I suppose I am inspired by my wife again because she had to make a big sacrifice to be in this country with me. I sometimes don’t realise how much it cost her in many ways. Therefore I am inspired to do great things that would make her proud of me. I often look for inspirational stories on the web or in books that can change one’s own attitude to life.

Attitudes was interesting and next discussed. We looked at what our personal vision was, our values, our greatest gifts to the world, and what gift you would give yourself. Reflecting on one’s life in an old people’s home what would one regret? Not watched enough TV? Hardly! Probably consider all the achievement I had accomplished and whether I had missed out on part of another better life. I doubt I would have regrets only ‘unfinished business’. Looking at values imagine at the funeral what would be said about you? He always was busy, with a happy cheeky smile. Also very silly when allowed to tell ridiculous jokes, clowning around, very dynamic and daring with regards to all sports and absolutely loyal to his family. Sounds like an impressive mix? Regarding greatest gifts, a wonderful caring husband, attentive parent full of compassion, honesty and empathy with those around him. Everyone mattered to him, no problem was too little or hard to sort out. Greatest gift, giving himself to good deeds and charities.