"When is the the last time you did something for the first time?"

At my company's annual meeting in December 2012 a Senior leader who I look up to asked, "When is the last time you did something for the first time?" I thought this was a great way to look at our everyday lives and challenge ourselves to get outside of our box. Since that meeting, I have done a few things for the first time, such as we expanded our family to include another dog. This was a big decision for us and the transition has been somewhat smoother than I expected. This reminds me that the stories we often make in our mind our much worse than reality. However, just last week I was given the opportunity to really do something for the first time. My first reaction was, I can't do that, I am not qualified, I am not smart enough then after it all sunk in...I thought this is such a wonderful opportunity, I can learn so much, share my ideas, expand my network, enhance my leadership skills and add additional stamps in my passport all in a controlled setting! I accepted the invitation and I will be joining a 2 week delegation to Argentina and Uruguay during the month of June. I will be traveling with the American Council of Young Political Leaders (ACYPL). A little about the program: Throughout the year, the ACYPL Outreach Manager contacts nominees to invite them to participate in upcoming international exchanges. Seven to 10 individuals are selected for each American delegation, and are notified 4-8 weeks prior to departure. All travel, hotels, and food costs are covered by ACYPL. As I have shared this news, the most often asked question is, " What/Who is ACYPL?" ACYPL is a nonpartisan NGO internationally recognized as the pre-eminent catalyst for introducing rising political and policy professionals to international affairs and to each other. Their mission is to promote mutual understanding, respect and friendship and cultivate long lasting relationships among next generation leaders. This opportunity has invigorated me, encouraged me to update my blog and I can't wait to see what the actual trip experience will do for my everyday outlook on life.