Andrew Millar.
Outward Bound 5-day Professional course.
Andrew Millar, FMG Limited.
6 May 2024.
"I think what this has taught me, if I'm 100% good with myself, then I can be 100% of my family and conversely 100% good with work."
Andrew recounts his experience at Anakiwa's transformative programme – an experience that has been a profound journey of personal growth and self-discovery.
Learning the art of being present.
One of Andrew’s most significant takeaways from the 5-day professional course is the concept of "being where your feet are". The absence of technology and the immersion in nature allowed him to fully focus on the present moment, something he struggled with prior to the course. He learned the importance of leaving work behind and committing wholly to his personal life, realising that if his job can manage without him for a few days, it can certainly handle an evening.
Personal growth through embracing the unknown.
Andrew’s solo night in the bush was a standout moment for him. The experience of setting up camp alone and spending 18 hours in solitude provided a profound sense of self-reliance and emotional clarity. This period of quiet reflection allowed him to address internal issues and manage his emotions effectively, marking a personal achievement.
He was also surprised by how comfortable he became with uncertainty. The course’s structure, which only provided immediate information without detailed schedules, helped him adapt and embrace the present moment, reducing anxiety about the unknown.
“The scenery, the people, the experience. It is the greatest time I’ve had to work on me, that I think I’ve ever had to work on. It will have positive implications on every other part of my life."
Taking the learned experiences into everyday.
Moving forward, Andrew plans to realign his priorities, placing greater emphasis on self-care to better support his family and work life. He acknowledges the need for regular self-reflection, whether through journaling or simply recognising his emotions, to maintain this newfound balance.
Overall, Andrew’s time at Anakiwa has been transformative, providing him with lasting memories, new perspectives, and a strengthened commitment to personal well-being. He encourages others to consider such this opportunity and is confident the course offers unparalleled opportunities for self-improvement and growth.