Rock Climbing Reflection

First, let me congratulate you all on your performance on the climbing expedition. I was very impressed with your understanding and demonstration of anchor building and climbing skills, as well as your attention to managing risk during climbing. In addition, I hope that you have all enjoyed the magic of Acadia National Park and the unique experience of climbing next to the ocean. It truly is one of my favorite places on the planet.

As we bring closure to the rock climbing unit, I'd like you to reflect on your experiences over the past few weeks and comment on the following:

View the diagram to the right that illustrates Gernstein's Comfort Zones as they pertain to adventure experiences (click on the diagram to view it larger). Using this diagram and the concept of comfort zones answer the following questions:

1. What does the term "comfort zone" mean to you?
2. Did you move beyond your comfort zone during the climbing expedition?
3. When, specifically?
4. If you decided to stay within your comfort zone, what was one reason for doing so?
5. How do you feel about yourself after stepping out of your comfort zone? OR...
6. How do you feel about yourself after choosing not to step outside your comfort zone?
7. If you did step out of your comfort zone, what allowed you to do it? OR...
8. If you didn't step out of your comfort zone, what if anything prevented you from doing so?
9. Is pushing yourself beyond what is comfortable important to you? Why or why not?
10. What is the value of stepping out of a comfort zone?
11. Should people who do not move beyond their comfort zone be pushed a little harder to do so? Why or why not?
12. What are some good reasons for remaining in a place where you feel entirely comfortable?
13. Are you more apt to step out of your comfort zone while climbing or engaging in adventure activities than in every-day life? Why or why not?
14. What is one specific thing you can do to step out of your comfort zone in every-day life?
15. In studying the diagram, what is the difference between the "groan zone" and the "growth zone"?
16. What is the relationship between risk and growth? In your answer, address the different types of risk we have discussed: "perceived" risk and "actual" risk.

This will be due before class on Friday, April 24, 2009. As always, I look forward to reading your responses.