My Outward Bound story.

I was on a path to professional rugby and pursuing a double degree until a series of serious concussions brought my progress to a halt. I had to stop playing, forfeit my university scholarship and move to live with my parents. I needed support for daily function, things I’d taken for granted became incredibly difficult.

My recovery took 1.5 years and during that time, I lost a lot of confidence. I was not able to do the things which were previously central to my identity. I signed up for Outward Bound as an opportunity to get my mojo going again.

“Simply applying for Outward Bound kickstarted positive momentum for me.”

A delay in starting my course due to COVID lockdowns turned out to be a blessing. I entered a period of trying new things to see what might make my wheels spin. By the time my course date was confirmed, I was ready for new opportunities of self-development.

The solo expedition was a completely new experience for me. This was a venture out into wilderness with a backpack, fly, rations and a notepad and pen. I was completely alone for three days with no watch to tell the time, no book to read and no plan. It was a unique opportunity to be alone in nature with my thoughts. I found it quite a testing and profound experience.

I spent the time writing letters to family and friends, drawing and reflecting. Each day my thoughts deepened, and my writing became more personal. This ‘free time’ helped me appreciate the relationships in my life and realise more about myself. Like how I enjoy having goals to work towards and being purposeful with my days.

“The course helped me reconnect with the personality traits I thought I’d lost.”

Academia and rugby had become a big part of my identity. When I was no longer able to focus on those specific goals, I became rattled by not being able to do what I thought defined me. I realise now that it is okay for your goals to change. I’ve come to understand how working towards a diverse range of goals creates fulfilment and challenge for me. When it gets hard to show up, I remind myself of this for motivation.

“We each arrived at the course with different skill sets and life experience. We found our way as a group, together.”

Our Watch (Sheppard 692) was made up of different personalities and a range of ages. This allowed me to encounter different perspectives as well as find commonality, and figure out how I slotted into a new group environment.  Where some thrived others learned, and vice versa. It was a great eye opener to be around people different to me.  It showed me the progress I’ve already made in my own life and where to take inspiration from others so I can improve.

Managing a group dynamic over 21 days was a great lesson in collaboration. The environment forced me to develop connections with people in a short amount of time. We were reliant on each other, and I was reminded of the value of respect and honesty to thrive in a team. We achieved more as a team than we ever could have alone. We worked through tough times together and broke our own glass ceiling.

“I feel more self-assured and assertive in my decision making.”

The course presented an opportunity for me to consider what my values are and the role they play in my life. I found it useful to unpack connect with and own my values. This knowledge has given me a way to plan, decide and measure my progress and decision making. If my choices and ideas align with my values, then I have confidence that I’m moving in the right direction. I have certainty and comfort knowing that what I do is authentic to me.

I have now finished my university studies and am starting out as a junior lawyer. I enjoy a range of other sports and hobbies outside of rugby. Because of Outward Bound, I feel more prepared to take on the challenges in my career and more generally in my life ahead.

Thank you Fidelity Life, for supporting me in attending Outward Bound.