Hello all. This is a late post, and is a bit of a long one, but bear with me. I am very happy with it. Over the past several weeks, the executive members of the Lynn and Francis Jackson Chapter of the National Residence Hall Honorary have been presenting on topics which we are passionate about. There have been presentations about goal setting, organization, and even lasting friendships (among other things). This week, though, we opened the floor to one of our oldest members (and one of my best, closest friends). This was an effort to give her a chance to present on something inspirational before her graduation. While I knew this presentation would be fantastic, I had no idea how inspired I would feel afterward.
Upon taking the floor, she introduced the presentation as "The ERL Equation." At first, puzzled looks could be noted on the faces of some of our members. But as she explained it further, the looks of confusion turned into looks of curiosity. The ERL equation is symbolic, representing a figurative equation: experience + reflection = learning. This will be explored further below.
The first part of the equation, experience, is important to consider. Firstly, you have to think about your passions. Knowing what one is passionate about will open the flood gates of experience. It is important to seek out opportunities to explore or develop your passions. Consider what opportunities are available to you, and what you want to do, and pursue them. This is the best way to gain experience. Considering the input of others is also important. Close friends, especially, know you well and may have suggestions for opportunities you should explore. Lastly, we MUST try be spontaneous as a way to gain valuable experience. Especially for those of us who plan, spontaneity can be difficult. It is hard to ignore your comfort zone and step out to try something new, but it can be incredibly rewarding. In my case, after this presentation I decided to attempt a 5K run with a friend this weekend (though I will NOT be running the entire 5K, I think I might die). Experience is the combination of one's passions, desires, input from others, and spontaneity. However, it is just one part of the equation.
The second part of the equation is reflection. While it may seem obvious to some, reflection is an important step in the learning process. Reflection is complex, as it should be. Don't be discouraged, though, as reflection is necessary to discover how your experiences affect you. It is important to know HOW to reflect, before attempting it. Often, the best environment is a quiet place to think. Otherwise, consider listening to music at a low volume. Though, there are other ways we can reflect. Some people simply think, while others journal. There are those who write/blog (like me), vlog, etc. Find something that works best for you, and go at it. There are a lot of questions to ask oneself when one is reflecting. What mistakes were made during this experience, and how could you succeed the next time you try? Noticing mistakes is important, because we learn and grow from acknowledging our mistakes. Evaluating the favorite and least favorite parts is important in determining whether you would do something again. It is important, too, to consider how you grew as a result of this experience.
Two final components of reflection had the biggest impact on me. One of those is the idea of learning and transferring. This has to do with gaining skills and qualities that can be applied in many different scenarios. While you may not be perfect for certain experiences, your qualities and skills make you far better than you might think. This is inspirational to me because it shows me why I need to attempt new things and experience novel events/scenarios. Lastly, you should consider who you impact and how you can impact others. Making a positive impact on others is one of the best ways to contribute to the good of those around you. If you aren't making a positive impact on others, what are you doing?
ERL - experience + reflection = learning. Through gaining experience and reflecting on it, we learn and grow. This presentation really spoke to me, and showed incredible passion and dedication. To my friend (I know you plan to read this): you're amazing. Wherever life takes you, never forget that. Never forget the ERL equation, it will serve you well. You're an inspiration to those around you, and you're an incredibly valued friend. To those who read this blog, in general: take this equation to heart. Apply it in your life. Gain experience, reflect, and grow. Become a better you, and better those around you. You are an important person, and you have value in this life. Do what you can to make your life and the lives of those around you better, more livable, and more inspired.
Until next time,
Brandon
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