Not In Group Any More By Kevin

The other day a friend of mine, called me as he was returning from a weekend in South Carolina.  He said that he had read my blogs about the IDC (IDCs, A Thought) and understood what I was saying.  However, “We are not in Group any more.”  Meaning, there are people whose standards are not as high as our own and they are the reason why there is a minimum.  I have always prided myself on having high standards for myself and for those around me.  Doing the minimum has never occurred to me and I expect those I work with to do the same.

I take my hobby profession serious.  I love teaching and love sharing the excitement of being underwater with others.  As a dive “professional” and in a position of leadership, I always try to shine the best light on the sport and to be a role model for other divers.  Therefore, when I work with other “professionals” who do not share my values, well, I am a little put out.  

Anyone who wants to be or is in leadership role (Dive Master, Assistant Instructor, and Instructor) needs to set high standards for themselves.  You must remember that you are a role model, like it or not.  Students look at you and emulate you.  If you cannot do a skill nice and slow, in a calm manor, how do you think your student will do it?  If you have your octy tucked in the pocket of your BCD, so will your students.  That can only lead to disaster.     

I know we are not in Group any more, but my standards will be.  I will always expect more out of those who come to do there leadership training with me, if they do not want to be pushed to be better, then they can move on and find someone else.