Alas, I have returned to blogging after a much needed respite. You see, I took time off to reorganize my thoughts about why I am a blogger and what mark I want to leave with the world as a result.
In the mix of my time off, I had the blessed opportunity to go to Shanghai, China on business. It was a 10 day extraordinary opportunity that pushed me to a new edge, both personally and professionally.
The trip was a gift on every level and at every turn. I am thankful to fellow coach Dr. Gary Waldron for the introduction and referral to my new friends in Shanghai. You see, this trip came about because of the power of my professional network. So when you are at the breaking point with your networking, I would ask you if you are ‘networking strategically or emotionally?’ Strategic gets you to things like international travel, emotional gets you to smile.
My China experience was far too extraordinary for only words, but with several photo’s that I snapped perhaps you can go there with me for a brief moment. The new learning for me, which you know I always like to learn new things, was three-fold. Over the next several days I will share each of the three new insights I took from Shanghai and how I believe it will transform your relationships, your business and your life.
But first, I must share the best thing that I took away from China. It’s a bonus item my new friends in Shanghai shared with me and a gift for you.
“I am GOOD with Chopsticks! Especially for a left handed woman!!”
Now you may be asking, what’s the value in that? Well, other than the fact I didn’t know how to ask for a fork in Chinese, so if I wanted to enjoy the amazing food…you get the picture. But moreover, I wanted to be immersed as much as possible within the culture. And what I realize now looking back, is that is so much of who I want to be every single day. With my family. With my friends. With my clients. I want to be immersed in them.
The value for me is in the depth of being with someone, on their terms, in their community, discovering their world. Removing self from the equation and being totally present to who they are being, right now. And here I thought I did that already. Boy was I wrong.
It took removing me from my familiar surroundings and comfort zone in such a radical (for me) way, to see how I want to be in the world.
It took removing my ability to effectively communicate, to understand what I want to say.
It took removing my ability to daily tell my family I love them, to feel their love.
It took immersing me in a land of strangers to simply Stop. Breathe. Be.
What do you suppose immersing yourself in a new culture, with only chopsticks, would do for your life? I’d love hear your thoughts below. Until next time, may you embrace the power to Stop. Breathe. Be. YOU!
Tammy, what a great experience!
This immersion in another culture is what finally allowed me to see things clearly because none of the “familiar” was there to cloud my vision. It allowed me to finally finish the book that had been languishing and to start business projects that would have never even been ideas, much less reality, in my former world.
I think we can all benefit from a little shakeup every now and then if only to show us exactly where we are.
Thank you Betsy.
So love seeing you pop into my blog!! You are part of the inspiration for my international business travel. Watching what you have done has truly shifted my perspective on what I value and what experiences I want to have in my life.
I enjoy hearing from you how the many different cultures you are experiencing is influencing you. Can’t wait to read the book!!
Safe travels my friend.
Tammy,
Great having you here and hearing about your insights! Love hearing about the removing of self and immersing to all of China. Can you imagine what it will be like the next time you’re here?
Best,
Esther
Thank you Esther. It was a great experience and I am making my list for the next time!
Wow, what amazing photos, Tammy. And I know what you mean. Taking yourself completely out of your own little world and experiencing things from another’s perspective is such a great way not only to immerse yourself in another culture but to learn new things about yourself. I cam back from my Africa trip a changed person.
Oh, and I tried valiantly to learn the chopsticks thing in dinners with a friend from Viet Nam, but never got the hang of it. : )
Yes Judy, the total immersion really has a big impact. Well, I suppose if my mind was closed off to the possibilities of it that may not have been the case.
I can only imagine how impactful Africa may have been for you!
I have used chopsticks for so many years that it was funny to me that was even noticed by others as a ‘big deal’. LOL