What are some of the meaningful experiences you have had at work–the kind of experiences that have been defining points in time or watershed events that have caused you to look at things a little differently?

Many new watershed experiences have come and gone-some even more difficult to think about; but which ones have forced you to consider what’s driving you to perform or keeping you going when you encounter seemingly impossible obstacles?

Defining Moments

A “watershed” is a critical point that serves as a dividing line. Historically, watersheds have been a critical factor in determining boundaries in regions where trade by water was vital to the survival of a country or locality. Today, we speak of watershed experiences as defining moments that bring about changes in direction, or amazing (sometimes painful) experiences that help define our lives. Here are some additional descriptors:

—Watershed experiences are sharp doses of reality that force us to look deeply at our reasons, root motives and impetus for doing certain things.

—Defining moments compel us to confront and clean up excessive pride and ambition, bad habits and hidden agendas.

—Both watershed experiences and defining moments help us curb idealism and separate fact from fiction.

Making the Most of Watershed Experiences

To make the most of your defining moments and watershed experiences, consider these desired outcomes. Make them your own.

1. During the experience, I will anticipate and embrace these events as formative experiences designed to re-shape and develop my character.
2. I accept the fact that after a watershed experience, I will not be the same person I was before…hopefully I’ll be a better one.
3. I will look beyond any euphoria or despair caused by the experience to the lifelong learning and maturity I will obtain.

You can’t escape life’s defining moments or watershed experiences, nor is there a guaranteed formula for success in dealing with them. Instead, utilize the above desired outcomes to help you navigate each watershed experience and value it to the fullest extent possible.

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