Life Lessons Canoeing The Zambezi

Life Lessons Canoeing The Zambezi – Sue Lester

So there we were, canoeing the Zambezi River with Zambia on the left, Zimbabwe on the right, a vast blue sky overhead and monstrous sized crocodiles and pods of hippos lurking beneath us. Being tall I was allocated the back seat, my companion the front and our share of the camping gear and food was piled up between us in that Canadian canoe. That meant I was in control of the steering, with a paddle cut out of plywood.

I didn’t really know what I was doing, but I had an idea of where we were going, and I figured that as long as I worked hard I could work it out as we went along.

So we struck out, paddling hard, nervously dodging the occasional hippo that popped up to breathe. I noticed we were veering left so I paddled harder on the left to correct it, then we were too far over to the right so I paddled harder on the right, and soon we were zig-zagging down the river. Those others who had started at the same time were well ahead now, gliding straight down the river.

Our guide called out something, but I didn’t listen as I was determined to get it right all by myself – I just had to work harder, didn’t I?

So we zig zagged wider and wider, stirring up hippo pods we could have easily avoided if on course. My companion had given up yelling at me and was muttering viciously under her breath. I was getting exhausted but still I battled on in increasing frustration and self doubt.

The guide paddled up to us again and this time I listened – and what a revelation it was. “You are trying too hard! Relax! Go with the flow!” Of course, I was already on the river, I just had to go with the flow, and only make small corrections if we started going off course.

Our guide stayed along side, talking about where we were headed, sharing tips to make better progress and encouraging our efforts. We quickly made up for lost ground, paddling straight for where we wanted to go with little hesitation, watching, listening and learning from those who had gone before us.

And when the hippo erupted out of the river under the canoe in front, our guide quickly settled us and showed us what to do when, so we cleared that obstacle quickly and safely, and got back into our rhythm, albeit sweat soaked with hearts thudding.

Having him beside us made the journey so much easier and more enjoyable, and my companion started smiling at me again. I even had time to notice the scenery and wildlife – and remember I was living my dream!

That guide was my inspiration, and what he did for me, I now do for my coaching clients. Ongoing goal setting, accountability and support, plus of course I have the power of Neuro Linguistic Programming to clear blocks that appear in your path so you can continue your progress smoothly.

So you’ll never again find yourself up the proverbial creek in a barb wire canoe without a paddle!

Personal Results Coaching Offer
In May I’m available for a limited number of 1 hour Success Map sessions (work out where you are, where you want to go, and how to get there) – FREE to the first 3 readers who email me (Normally priced $145) sue@growingcontent.com.au.