Unleashing Transformation: A Journey with Dr. Robert Kegan
About my participation in the Pre-Conference Workshop during the Integral European Conference in Hungary
It was a serendipitous encounter that led me to the workshop led by the legendary Harvard psychologist and adult development theorist, Dr. Robert Kegan.
As I entered the room, anticipation crackled in the air, mingling with the palpable energy of individuals gathered from diverse backgrounds and countries: Ukraine, Poland, France, China, Canada, Ireland, USA, Germany, just to name few, all driven by a shared thirst for knowledge and personal growth.
Our workshop: Constructive-Developmental Theory: Stages in the Development of Our Meaning-Making was about to started when Dr. Kegan took center stage, radiating wisdom and warmth. With each word he spoke, he unveiled the transformative power of Constructive-Developmental Theory – a theory that pioneered the field of adult development. Through concise presentations, engaging videos, short exercises, and spirited discussions, we delved into the evolution of our mindsets beyond adolescence.
As the workshop progressed, a newfound clarity emerged within me. Dr. Kegan’s insights illuminated the stages of meaning-making, helping me understand how our perspectives evolve and shape our interactions with the world. The competencies gained were nothing short of profound—a deeper understanding of the self, enhanced empathy for others, and an expanded capacity for navigating the complexities of adult life.
In the second part of the workshop, Dr. Kegan guided us through the labyrinthine landscape of our personal aspirations and the barriers that impede progress—the infamous “immunity to change.” Through interactive and experiential exercises, we confronted our own competing commitments, uncovering the hidden forces that sabotage our best intentions from becoming a better eduactor, through loosing a weight to trying to change a world for a better place for all of us
Dr. Kegan’s framework for personal improvement transcended the traditional models of willpower and resolutions. It was a revelation—a pathway that offered a compassionate and nuanced approach to change. The workshop provided a safe space for reflection, fostering the courage to confront the fears and assumptions that hold us back.
Personally, the workshop was transformative. It enabled me to embark on a journey of self-discovery, deepening my understanding of my own development and unlocking new avenues for personal growth. The competencies gained in understanding meaning-making and overcoming immunity to change have equipped me with invaluable tools to navigate life’s challenges and nurture my own continuous development.
For my organization, Institute for Global Integral Education, which specializes in adult education, the benefits are immense. The workshop has expanded my capacity to design and deliver impactful programs that foster growth and development among our learners.
Dr. Kegan’s insights provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of adult learning and the stages individuals progress through on their journeys. Armed with this knowledge, our organization can better tailor our educational offerings to meet the diverse needs of our students, empowering them to unlock their full potential.
As the workshop drew to a close, a sense of gratitude filled the room. We departed with hearts alight, armed with newfound wisdom, and inspired to embark on our continuing journeys of personal and professional development. Dr. Robert Kegan’s workshop had left an indelible mark on our souls, forever transforming the way we perceive ourselves and the world around us. And so, we ventured forth, ready to unleash the full power of our growth and meaning-making potential.
Ania Filmowska, participant
