A Sentimental Journey

Friday was the final day of the Reflective Practice module of our Foundations of Management class at AGSM led by Denise Weinreis and Rosamund Christie. These women were amazing instructors. The emotional intelligence behind the curriculum, which was a part of what we learned in the class, raises the bar for the integrity of the entire MBA program.

In this last gathering, each individual in the group shared an object that held sentimental value to them and why they brought it with them all the way from home to Sydney. It was an amazing window into the emotional depth we all share, and incredibly touching. I found my eyes watering almost constantly as each person stood up and shared for less than one minute each.

As each student gave insight into their cultural values, families, adventures, and rugby jersies, I could see how the third culture that we create in our class of 2010 doesn't only affect us as future alumni. As we are affected by all those who give us strength, the culture of openness and respect that we create affect their lives in return.

In the constant challenge of effective leadership, we are only as effective as we are deep. If our emotional depth and understanding of the people that directly surround us reaches a more profound level, we should all become more motivated and passionate to achieve the best lives possible for us and those we love.