Day 5: Taking That First Step

Like many other leadership workshops I have attended, this morning amazing race was a great platform for me to learn more about leadership and myself. Before we embarked on the race, Prof Zachary introduced to us the objective of this leadership training session and led us to a brief discussion on our perception of an outstanding leader.

Interestingly during the session, we were asked to introduce ourselves and initiate small talk with someone we are unfamiliar with – the kind of conversation I have always detest. Even though we more or less knew one another (at least by the name), I was still uncomfortable with the setting and found it really awkward. Prof Zachary promptly pointed out that as young adults now, we need to step out of our comfort zone and learn to socialise with people. We are no longer that kid who could shy away from strangers.

Prof Zachary made a lot of sense to me. As much as I loath such interactions, I agree that it is high time for me to pick up such a social skill. I guess it is part of growing up and a way to connect with people we will be meeting for the first time. More often than not, I face this immense “inertia” to strike up a conversation. I dislike the discomfort the situation brings. Furthermore, I often did not know how to carry on the conversation after I have introduced myself. Finding out more about someone is one way I had learnt today to keep the conversation going. It was impossible to perfect such a skill this morning but I am glad today’s session had equipped me with the basics.

The amazing race had also made me realised how I have developed to be more supportive of my teammates. Assertive was the word my teammates in the past would describe me to be. I gave others minimal chance to lead and rarely offered any words of encouragement. It was my flaw back then but I am glad that it no longer is. Over the years, I have learnt to become a better team player and be more receptive to the opinions of my teammates. I used to have this notion that the most challenging role was that of a leader. However, I was wrong to assume so. In learning how to become a better team player over the years, I was faced with equally challenging situations as well. For instance, on certain occasions, I shared a different belief with the person in-charge. It was challenging to voice out my opinions tactfully or disheartening if my opinions were not valued. Nevertheless, I had learnt to respect the outcome and carry out my role as required. After all, it was a team effort!

Photo Credit: Crystal Hong

Savouring the last few hours in Chiang Mai, a few of us decided to explore the amazing Grand Canyon of Chiang Mai – a place known for its beauty and cliff jumping activity. Well, for an individual with a phobia of height and water, cliff jumping was definitely not on my mind. Watching my friends jumped off the cliff one after another made me realise the fun I am missing out in life. I had let my fears restrained me instead of overcoming them. Their bravery today has inspired me to explore new adventures in life and not let my phobia get the better of me. As we always say, you only live once. We should live our life to the fullest and the way we will want to be remembered.

Cliff jumping, I will be back for you one day.