It Begins…
Today’s the day! I’m headed to my first Immersion Conference to be “immersed” in the process of becoming Dr. Karavedas. I’m finally doing it – taking the first step on this journey. Ready or not, here I go.
So what is Immersion? I’m not really sure what to expect. I know I’ll be meeting my other cohort members. Again, I’m not sure what to expect. I assume they’ll be younger than me. In fact, I assume most of the people in the program will be younger than me. After all, this is Career #3 for me.
We’ve been asked to bring a presentation revealing our top core values to the first cohort group meeting. It’s interesting that we start our very first meeting with this –
I don’t know any of you, but I’m going to reveal to all of you the most important things in my life.
I mean, I don’t typically reveal my innermost thoughts to someone until I’ve known them at least a day.
On the other hand, I find it encouraging that the program begins with our values. After all, that really is the best place to start. What do I value? What is most important to me? These values will shape the type of leader I will become through this leadership program. My values define the person Dr. Karavedas really is, with or without letters behind the name.
My top core values are Family, Faith, and Integrity. These values were definitely shaped as a child. I grew up in a family that went to church on Sunday and ate dinner together every night at 6 pm. Although they may look a little different in my life, these values are still the most important ones I hold. I have a husband, two children (both married), and four (soon to be five) of the most adorable grandchildren you’ve ever met. I hope I’ve instilled these same values in them.
My other two values are Achievement and Security. I believe these values are directly related to my life stage. While these particular values have always been important to me, I’m no longer 20 years old looking ahead at the future. I’m now considering my future and wondering about security and legacy, both of which have led to my entering this program and taking this journey. It’s time I do the things I’ve always wanted to do, be the person I want people to remember, start working on that bucket list. Ok, I’m not THAT old…I’m not going anywhere real soon!
I am going on this journey toward a Doctorate in Transformational Leadership. I will be transformed. It begins with me.
So, walk in the door, girl – here we go!