'Freedom to Flourish' by Keirron Tastagh - a discussion on
taking risks responsibly
The theme 'freedom to flourish' runs through the current
advertising campaign, featuring the 'Island Lives' of those who
live and work here. The professionally produced television
advertisements join local people in their regular day, bringing to
the public eye glimpses of how their passions and lifestyle choices
are both supported and encouraged. How this positive attitude
provides the catalyst for happy wholesome pursuits, and the
environment in which many talented achievers have
blossomed.
One of the flavours (for many the main ingredient) to
island life is the accessibility to the outdoors; part of 'everyday
life' with choice to encompass every taste. The Island is rightly
proud of the accomplished sports people, entrepreneurs and
enthusiasts who have utilised this freedom to flourish. The
lifestyle choices made by such people are reflected in their
success, their employment and their home.
Freedom involves countless choices, including the freedom to take
risks; because the biggest risk in life is not to risk. I am a
great believer of the mantra "It is certain that we will not live
forever, but not all of us really live"! Adapted from Mel Gibson's
phrase in Braveheart.
Risk is the possibility that something may happen which we
do not intend. When decision making (in every aspect of life) we
weigh up the pro's and cons and select the option which will bring
us our intended result. We are in fact conducting risk assessment,
using processes as simple or complex as the decision maker
wishes.
Some take more risks, some choose less, and characters, education,
achievement, enjoyment and the resulting lifestyle are the product
of this. Different cultures, previous experiences and situations
can sway the process, but the individual is ultimately responsible
for his or her decision. Individuals decide whether they live life
to the full, get by or merely exist - taking no risks, losing
nothing. Gaining nothing!
Taking risks need not be irresponsible, or involve money,
possessions or physical harm. To take risk is to try to achieve
what is not certain. To step out of your comfort zone and possibly
not reach the intended goal. "It is the journey, not the
destination which is important." Adapted from a quote by Arthur
Robert Ashe, Jr.
There are those with natural talent and drive, to push themselves
to their utmost limits and beyond the limits others feel
comfortable with. It is a fine line between someone at the top of
their game, pushing boundaries and taking 'risks'; and someone well
outside of their ability level, displaying an irresponsible
attitude and providing a poor role model. Which side of the line
often depends upon the attitudes of those taking the risks, and the
perceptions of those not taking part.
The Isle of Man is the perfect adventure playground for
those wishing to partake and excel in outdoor pursuits whether
gentile strolling or adrenaline pumping extreme sports, and
everything in between. The role of the outdoor education provider
is to ensure a safe, fun learning experience and reduce the real
risk as much as practically possible. These are constantly assessed
and reduced to feelings of exhilaration, apprehension or fear of
the unknown, and coping with these emotions (aspects of operating
outside of personal comfort zones) in an unfamiliar environment.
Certain inherent perceived risks remain which are integral to the
activity. These heighten the senses, ensuring the journey is an
unforgettable adventurous experience!
The long term objective of the instructor or coach is to
allow those, under guidance, to develop independence of tuition, at
their own pace. Achieved by having the skill to effectively 'read'
people, make decisions, inspire confidence, pass on knowledge and
awareness, and carefully balance nurturing and persuading,
leadership and consideration. Ultimately it is the skill of
bringing responsible decision making processes (risk assessment)
out in others. To teach and build the qualities of team work and
leadership in students, with the emphasis on gaining experience in
an environment suited to the students' ability and learning style.
The instructor has the participant as their primary
focus.
Those pushing their own personal limits do this without
the responsibility of coaching or leading others at the same time,
and so can operate at an 'extreme' level. This may include
increased perceived and real risk, and that individual has the
freedom of choice to do so frequently resulting in the individual's
ability to flourish.
published in the Isle of Man Examiner - Tuesday
11th November 2008