Heartful Leader TC in Slovenia pt. 1

Heartful Leader TC in Slovenia pt. 1

For me, this was the first time I participated in an Erasmus+ project, and I had high expectations for it. From the project's title, I assumed the course would focus on a leader's knowledge and skills in various aspects. However, it eventually turned out that the course focused more on an alternative understanding of the leader's role and on the "heartful" side of a leader. In other words, we discussed and practiced mindfulness, self-awareness, the connection between body, mind, and emotions, as well as creativity, curiosity, and improvisation.

The place where we stayed, Metta farm in Frankolovo, was very open, welcoming, and organic. We slept in a converted barn, which was very challenging for me at first, but I later got used to it. Downstairs was an open kitchen, where one of the best chefs prepared very tasty meals for us every day. I really liked the nature and environment of Slovenia; it reminded me a lot of the Orava and Liptov regions in Slovakia.

There were two of us from Slovakia, Paulína and I. We quickly got to know each other and spent a lot of time together. On the project's free day, we went on a trip to Celje and visited the city center and the Technipark science center, as well as the nearby Laško Castle. There were also many other members from Europe who were very friendly and inspiring.

I must admit that I really enjoyed my time in Slovenia. Even though I didn't learn anything new or revolutionary, I still gained a better understanding of the role of a (heartful) leader. Not to mention that I met many amazing people from different parts of Europe and that I was able to appreciate the nature and beauty of Slovenia.