Reflecting on Resilience: My 7-Day Journey with Erasmus+ in Hungary

From May 10th to 18th, 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a 7-day Erasmus+ training course called "Art of Resilience." Hosted at the picturesque Pénzpatak Vadászház in the Bükk Mountains of Hungary, this course was designed to enhance the resilience and well-being of those who work with people, using experiential learning as its core method.

• Day 1: Arriving and Settling In The first day was all about arrivals and getting to know the beautiful surroundings. As I stepped into the rustic charm of Pénzpatak Vadászház, nestled in the lush green expanse of the Bükk Mountains, I felt an immediate sense of tranquility. The air was fresh, and the scenic beauty set the perfect tone for the week ahead.

• Day 2: Building Foundations We kicked off the training with ice-breaking activities that helped us connect with fellow participants. The facilitators introduced us to the key concepts of resilience, emphasizing the importance of inner resources and external support systems. Through group discussions and initial reflective exercises, we began to explore our own resilience and well-being.

• Day 3: Embracing Uncertainty One of the pivotal goals of the course was to develop tolerance for uncertainty. On the third day, we engaged in activities that placed us outside our comfort zones, encouraging us to face and adapt to unpredictability. These exercises, though challenging, fostered a sense of camaraderie among us and helped us realize that uncertainty is a natural part of life.

• Day 4: Tools for Development The fourth day was packed with sessions focused on personal and professional development. We learned practical skills to enhance our resilience, such as stress management techniques, effective communication strategies, and mindfulness practices. These tools were not only theoretical but were applied through interactive workshops that made the learning process deeply engaging.

• Day 5: Self-Reflection and Awareness Self-awareness was at the heart of the fifth day. We delved into self-reflective practices that helped us understand our strengths and areas for improvement. Through guided meditation and reflective journaling, I gained profound insights into my own resilience and how I could better harness it in both personal and professional spheres.

• Day 6: Experiential Learning in Action On the sixth day, we put experiential learning into practice. We participated in activities that required us to reflect on our experiences and discuss our learning outcomes. This hands-on approach solidified the concepts we had been learning throughout the week, providing a comprehensive understanding of resilience through real-world application.

• Day 7: Closing and Reflection The final day was a time for reflection and closure. We shared our experiences, insights, and growth with the group. The facilitators provided feedback and helped us create action plans to continue developing our resilience after the course. As we prepared to leave, there was a palpable sense of achievement and empowerment among us.

The Impact of the "Art of Resilience" Course The "Art of Resilience" training course profoundly impacted me. It equipped me with practical strategies for boosting my well-being and resilience, helped me develop a healthier relationship with uncertainty, and provided tools for continuous personal and professional growth. The emphasis on self-awareness through reflective exercises enriched my understanding of myself and my purpose. Reflecting on this journey, I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of this transformative experience. The serene setting of the Bükk Mountains, combined with the thoughtfully designed program, made this an unforgettable chapter in my professional and personal development.