Grow Where You are Planted: Cultivating Success with Awareness and Attitude



 Presented by Jenn Ambrose, Teresa Kunz and Marshiela Banner
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Boise State University Lookout room
 

Our training was scheduled for a two hour block from 10:00 -12:00, subdivided into three segments allowing each of us an opportunity to be the trainer.  Teresa taught concepts about awareness; Jenn taught about attitude and I taught concepts necessary to achieve balanced self renewal.

As participants entered the room, we introduced ourselves and learned each individuals name.  We were able to learn a little of each participants background which helped as we interacted with each of them during the training session.

We set out training manuals, candy and water bottles for each of the participants.  We also provided nuts and granola bars half way through the training.  We did all that we could think of to create comfort zones.  The only glitch was the heat (or lack of it) in the room.  We didn't really notice it at first, but by the time we were done, I think everyone was a little chilly. 

However, we tried to keep our participants engaged in the learning process to keep them moving.  Each of us presented information and then asked our groups to do reflection exercises followed by group interaction.  We used different zones in the room.  Tables were set up in the back for break-away sessions.  We also had our participants break up in sub groups where they were sitting. 

We were able to incorporate the 'music matters' training component by having spa music playing during reflection exercises.  It was great to set the mood for writing and also kept the room from being uncomfortably silent.

We ended on time and had some nice feedback from our participants afterwards.  We were all pleased with the result.  It was a great learning experience.

WHAT I HAVE LEARNED:

I appreciate the opportunity I had to work with these very capable ladies.  Throughout the entire process, deadlines were kept, we brainstormed and planned together, and everyone was willing to step up and do their part.

The biggest take away from this experience was that planning is absolutely key to a successful workshop.  We were lucky and did not encounter any big surprises during our training, which I would attribute to our advance preparation.   The workshop went very smoothly. 

As well as it went, however, I know it would be even better the second, third of fourth time if we had the opportunity.  Practice does make perfect.  But, for a first experience with the subject matter, we were so pleased with how it turned out. 

Our one glitch turned out to be in our video recording.  Although we tried to plan ahead and be prepared for contingencies, we learned that it is hard to control every outcome.  Next time, we would make sure we had a backup :)!