We must encourage ourselves and others to embrace new experiences and learn from them, for it is through these experiences that we truly grow and evolve.
Onboard Lynx #08 from International Drive to downtown Orlando. The bus stopped at the Lynx Central Station. From there, I walked all over downtown Orlando and visited a few must-sees. Then, I returned to the Lynx Central Station and took Lynx #08 back to International Drive.
Introduction
As a corporate leader and executive coach, I often find myself navigating the intricate pathways of the business world. But recently, I embarked on a different kind of journey, one that took me far from the boardrooms of the corporate world and international conference halls. I decided to explore downtown Orlando by bus, an adventure that taught me valuable lessons applicable to both our professional and personal lives.
The Decision to Explore
Orlando is known for its theme parks and tourist attractions, but I was determined to delve deeper into the city's pulse and understand its heartbeat. So, I set aside my usual means of transportation (Uber, Lyft etc) and opted for the city's public bus system.
Lessons Learned
Lesson #1: Stepping out of the comfort zone
The first lesson I learned was about stepping out of my comfort zone. Just like in our careers, we often find ourselves in situations that require us to take a leap of faith. Boarding that bus (rather than the usual convenient car ride) was my leap, and it was a reminder that growth rarely happens when we remain in familiar territory.
Lesson #2: Seeing through local eyes
During the two-hour long return journey, as the bus rolled through the streets of Orlando, I saw the city through the eyes of its residents. It was a chance to connect with locals, engage in conversations, and gain a deeper appreciation for their daily lives. I spoke with everyone who sat next to me! This is a skill that can be directly applied to our professional lives—listening and empathising with colleagues, employees, and clients can lead to better relationships and outcomes.
Lesson #3: Embracing diversity
Orlando is a melting pot of cultures, and the bus ride exposed me to this diversity. I encountered people from various backgrounds, each with their own story. I can’t forget my interesting conversation with a Cuban restaurateur over a cup of Cuban coffee at his restaurant. And I was fascinated by the stories shared by a local on the history of Florida (the Orange State, pre- and post-Disney, etc). In today's globalised business world, embracing diversity and understanding different perspectives is essential for success. It allows us to tap into a wide range of ideas and approaches.
Lesson #4: Patience and adaptability
Public transportation often requires patience and adaptability. Buses can run late, schedules can change, and you might not always get a seat. Also, waiting under the hot sun in summer is never fun! These experiences taught me the importance of remaining patient and adaptable, qualities that are indispensable in both our professional and personal lives.
Lesson #5: Observing the details
During my bus journey, I had the opportunity to notice many details of the city that often go unnoticed when we're in a hurry or just plainly taken for granted. There were many interesting sights, historical monuments, art and murals, building architecture etc that make Orlando unique. Similarly, in our careers, taking the time to observe details can lead to innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of the challenges we face.
Lesson #6: The power of reflection
Finally, the peaceful moments on the bus especially on my return journey from downtown Orlando to International Drive allowed me to reflect on my own life and career, including how grateful I am to be in the States for the very first time to attend Converge23 organised by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and speak at that conference with my fellow ICF Foundation colleagues on the topic of 'Introduction to the Ignite Initiative and Orientation to the UN Global Goals'. Converge23 was an amazing conference where more than 1,000 coaches from over 68 countries congregated to share, learn and network, and I’m so grateful to be part of it! Self-reflection is a crucial tool for professional and personal growth. It helps us understand our strengths and weaknesses and identify areas for improvement. Also, gratitude and thankfulness will help us better appreciate what we have and not take things for granted.
Conclusion
Venturing into downtown Orlando by bus was a simple yet profound experience that provided me with valuable insights applicable to both professional and personal growth. It reminded me that sometimes, stepping out of our comfort zones and experiencing life from a different perspective can be the catalyst for transformation.
In both our professional and personal lives, it is imperative that we not only embrace new experiences but also actively encourage ourselves and those around us to do the same. These novel experiences serve as invaluable opportunities for personal growth and evolution. It is through these encounters that we gain profound insights and develop into better versions of ourselves.
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