Transformational Learning

Recognizing a significant problem is step one of Transformational Learning, sometimes identifying the problem is not as easy as one would think. Some problems are hidden and are not discovered until something drastic happens that forces it to be identified. A good example of this is the BP oil disaster in the Gulf. Obviously the problem was there for quite some time, but until the explosion, no one knew it existed. Once the problem is identified, then plans must be set in place to confront it intensely. All problems or issues can be resolved using the same steps, although the intensity or level of the problem may not be as severe. In finding a solution, the BP oil disaster was finally resolved; after many weeks of intense meetings, sharing of ideas, as well as a couple of failed attempts at solving the problem. By integrating a new perspective and a new set of assumptions, one would hope that future disasters of this nature could be completely avoided, loss of life, and environmental impact would be lessened too. I sincerely hope that a major safety plan is produced and implemented to accomplish this.

I have decided that we never quit transforming; the one sure thing in life is change! The stages of change in our lives may differ with our experiences. We may have to skip over some stages or we may experience all seven, or become ingrained in one stage. In this stage of my life, my disorienting dilemma began on September 7, 2009 when my husband of twenty-eight years passed away after a brief illness. After nearly a year, I am still going though self-examination trying to determine how to put myself back together and start a new life. I must go from being with someone I loved, and that loved me, to being alone. All of the step...

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.... Although my plan is still being formulated, earning my degree in Business Administration is definitely an important part of my plan.

In summary, the last stage of my transformational life lesson is reintegration or restoration. Although, I believe that we are constantly in one or more of these stages as our lives change, I believe I am in the reintegration stage now. None of these stages have been pleasant for me, but at least this one involves hope for my future. I have learned that I must be patient and kind with myself. I have to face the realization that I am not the same person that I was a year ago and learn to love who I am now. This is the final step, at least until the next transformational change occurs in my life. In this stage, I can look back and see where I was, I can see how far I have come. I know that I will go farther, and life will go on.