This session is an opportunity for students to explore what they feel is deeply important to them as individuals, and start to put those feelings into words. The focus is on what drives us to make the choices we do, the role that Fear, Love and Courage have in those choices, the connection to self-worth and ‘character’, and the link to happiness and fulfilment. The aim by the end of the session is for each student to have written down 2-5 ‘Stands’ that are the foundation of their character and are the source of courage when facing the unknown or uncertainty. There will be an opportunity for individuals to make a commitment: “To continue to learn about who I am so that I can bring my best to the world.”

Once we have the foundation of the commitment of continuing to learn so we may bring our best to the world, driven by the courage of our stands, the conditions are set for us to be curious without fear. The second break-out session builds on that foundation, asking “What do I want to know?”; “What do I need to know?”; and “When will I be content about my knowledge and expertise?” The discussion then moves to how to develop the superpower of learning to ask the important questions, rather than trying to always be the one with the answers. Being confident in ‘not knowing the answers’ unlocks our ability to lead ourselves into the unknown, face adversity, or to handle a crisis. This skill also underpins every high-performing team. The session will conclude with a conversation about why it is human to make mistakes and how learning to fail can accelerate us forward. 

The final session in the foundation series consolidates the work already done and explores how we can each bring our best to the world. The focus is on how we relate to others and set the conditions for those around us to show-up well, too. We discuss when ‘being authentic’ is not always the most valuable approach and how acting with integrity can be the better choice. We’ll learn how to respond to a situation rather than react, and how this distinction can help us manage fear or panic. This conversation will lead to how we can handle frustrations or complaints (in ourselves or others), and how our stands can help turn that negative energy into a force that is positive and generative. The session will conclude with a look at the difference between being made accountable and choosing to take responsibility – and how we need both to flourish.