Our values

"I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.
Confucius

Taking responsibility

Each participant takes responsibility for themselves, the group, equipment, and the environment. The ability to work diligently and carefully promotes self-confidence and trust in the group: anyone who takes on responsibility is trusted by others. Responsibility therefore goes hand in hand with care. By taking care, we mean thinking about all the consequences of a decision. Therefore, in our courses we deliberately hand over responsibility to the participants and help them see the impact their choices may have on themselves and others - for better or for worse.

Empathy

Constantly on the path of self-realization and the realization of individual freedom? We demand of our participants to not only look after their own interests, but to think about all others involved and to become sensitive to their needs. Mutual support ensures trust in a group and a sense of belonging. Building positive relationships in everyday life or at work requires realistic self-assessment and the ability to constructively accept feedback received by the group. We therefore create situations in which one can practice these crucial skills - respecting different opinions, tolerating differences and showing empathy.

Perseverance

Because the will is the strongest muscle in us humans, we continue even when it becomes exhausting and uncomfortable. This includes the willingness to actively stay tuned to a new task and to work on it effectively over a longer period of time, even if we ourselves may not have chosen the task. Challenging conditions like rapdily changing weather or flaring social conflicts put you to the test. We show you how to ímprove your endurance and how to deal with stress and pressure. This requires honest self-reflection and knowledge of strengths and weaknesses - both one's own and those of others - as well as the ability to provide authentic and honest feedback. In our courses, we intentionally bring about situations that require you to overcome your perceived limits to discover and develop your true strength - both physical and mental. Over the course of the program we become stronger - not in competition with each other, but together, as one team. 

Taking initiative

Courageously take the lead, speak up and act. For us, this means actively contributing to group processes both in your everday life and during your time here at Outward Bound - supporting others where needed, giving constructive feedback at appropriate times, and to contribute to the group success in any way possible. This requires self-confidence, a clear understanding of the tasks at hand, and self-directed gathering of information. Over the course of your Outward Bound program, you will learn how how to communicate effectively and you will see the effect your initiative has on the group and its success. We will design tasks for you to practice these skills and leave room for the group to come up with its own solutions, and to make its own decisions.