WHY – For what reason or purpose – “why did he do it?”

The WHY is the purpose, cause or belief that drives every one of us. (Simon Sinek, 2009)

In 2004, I became a teacher because I realised I love sharing knowledge and helping others. I’ve also been told I’m good at explaining things in a way which is easy to understand.

If I’m being completely honest, I actually became a teacher because I’ve always loved sport and exercise, coupled with adventurous travel and outdoor adrenaline-fuelled activities. So choosing to study a PGCE in Physical Education and Geography, with the promise of long summer holidays and opportunites to travel and explore, was a perfect combination.

Throughout my teaching career, I then became good at explaining things, helping others and sharing my knowledge. So you see, what I did and ultimately what I became good at, were not the reasons why I did them in the first place. Not then.

Now as it turns out, it’s no coincidence that the choices I made throughout my teaching career led me to follow my own internal motivation. I continued to teach PE but later specialised in Outdoor & Adventurous Education, combining practical learning opportunites with numerous educational visits and residential trips. This led onto me completing my overseas expedition leader selection and being fortunate enough to lead life-changing expeditions around the world. I followed my WHY.

Then in 2018, after losing a student to suicide; my own internal motivation, or my why, quite literally changed overnight. I say it changed – you might recognise it a little…

– I wanted to share my own knowledge and experience with others

– I wanted to help others in any way I can

Now I am truly motivated.

Why?

I want to share my own knowledge and experience with others – helping them in any way I can.

How?

I facilitate courses which are easy to understand, relevant to those attending and which add value to their lives.

What?

I nearly forgot to mention… I’m a Mental Health First Aid Trainer. For more information on my courses, visit www.loftustraining.com