Colours of Glass: My

Thematic Analysis
JANA LEE COX
NOVEMBER 10, 2021
OGL482
PROFESSOR KENNETH WILLMOTT
 Who am I? What motivates me,
and what brings me joy? Like a
stained-glass window, my life is

Introduction
colored by themes that give it
meaning and beauty. Analyzing
these themes reveals truths
hidden in the hues, truths that
have power to shape a life and
determine a destiny.
Research Process and Methods

Creating a thematic analysis requires compiling and objectively reviewing

data to discover common themes, then drawing appropriate conclusions.
Below are the research processes and methods I used to identify and support
themes that have impacted my life.
u My first step was to gather my sources. I included recommended sources
from this class, like my Personal Narrative and the Kuder Assessments, as
well as significant assessments and writings from previous courses.
u I then carefully read through each source and highlighted significant
words or phrases. At first, some phrases didn’t seem important, but when I
noticed that they cropped up in multiple sources, I took note. I also jotted
down main phrases on another sheet so they could be organized.
Research Process and Methods con’t

u Once I finished going through the sources, I created a spreadsheet. Here, I

labeled each column with a phrase that represented the common themes
I saw in my sources. There were quite a few. I labeled each row with the
name of a source. Then, going back through each source, I transferred my
highlighted examples onto the grid in the cell corresponding to the source
and the theme. This took some time.
u After I had listed all the tentative themes and examples on the
spreadsheet, I took some time to review and regroup them. Some were so
similar I thought it best to combine them. Others had so little supporting
evidence I chose to eliminate them.
Research Process and Methods con’t

u When I had narrowed my theme phrases down to several groupings on

the spreadsheet, I began formulating my actual themes. These, I listed on
a separate page, reworking them until they represented themes that
could be supported by the data.
u Next, by cross-referencing my spreadsheet, I began adding supporting
evidence to each theme. As I did so, I realized some didn’t quite match
the data and needed to be reworked. I reconsidered the data and
modified the theme so it would clearly represent the source evidence.
u The simple life themes I developed through the research process that I will
be presenting in this analysis are autonomy, advocacy, helping others,
problem solving, accomplishment, determination, leadership, creativity,
balance, and adventure.
 On the following slides I will
present my data sources. These
sources include various
My Data assessments and personal

Sources reflections from throughout my

organizational leadership
program. I will also include a
Legend for easy reference.
Data Sources

u Personal Narrative - A Life of Meaning (PN) – This assignment provided an

opportunity to reflect on life events that had a significant impact on my
development as a person and a leader. During this process I identified several life
themes that create value in my life.
u Kuder Career Interests Assessment (KCIA) – This assessment measured my interest in
different career orientations through prioritization of various written prompts. Its
results were presented as Holland Occupations Codes (RIASEC) representing
realistic, investigative, artistic, social, enterprising, and conventional categories.
u Kuder Skills Confidence Assessment (KSCA) – This assessment measured my
confidence levels in performing tasks related to the Holland Occupations Codes
(RIASEC - realistic, investigative, artistic, social, enterprising, and conventional). This
was accomplished through the ordering of various written prompts.
Data Sources con’t

u Super's Work Values Inventory (SWVI) – This inventory measured my response to

various scenarios and ranked my corresponding alignment with several common
work values. Doing so helped me see evidence of several key core beliefs.
u Motivation and Career Anchors Assessment (MCAA) – In this assessment, I rated
various work examples on a scale of 1-10. The results helped me identify my career
anchors and described how those anchors affect my work performance.
u The Three Questions - revised (3Q) – This essay was written for a class discussion post
about a video lecture by Fr. Himas (2016) by the same name. The prompts allowed
me to consider my response to each question: What do I love to do, what am I
good at, and what does the world need me to do?
Data Sources con’t

u Identities Exercise (IE) – This exercise required identifying each of my life roles,
describing how each defined my self-concept and influenced my priorities and
actions.
u Values Checklist (VC) – In this exercise, I identified my top 10 values from a checklist,
then immediately narrowed it down to five. Then, one by one, I was required to
eliminate values until I had only one, describing and justifying my decisions as I went
along. This helped me grasp my top value and purpose in life.
u Dreams and Desires Worksheet (DDW) – This exercise required me to list my dreams
and desires and rank them according to my priorities. Then it asked me to dig
deeper in discovering why that dream or desire was important to me. This helped
uncover key motivators in my life.
Data Sources con’t

u 16 Personalities (16P) – This personality test is similar to other quadrant-style

instruments. I found it very helpful in understanding myself, and the supplemental
material gave insights on my priorities, strengths, and weaknesses, and how to
improve them.
u Humanmetrics Jung Typology Test (HJTT) – This test is a more well-known quadrant-
style instrument. This also was very helpful in understanding who I am and how I can
best contribute to the world.
u The Big 5 (TB5) – This is a well-known instrument that measures 5 key areas on a
sliding scale, including extraversion, emotional stability, agreeableness,
conscientiousness, and openness to experience. Understanding where I fall on these
spectrums is helpful in analyzing who I am and how I relate to others.
Data Sources con’t

u KOLB Learning Style Assessment (KOLB) – This assessment, taken in OGL 360, helped
me discover my learning style in order to facilitate my leadership capacity and
educational progress.
u DISC Leadership (DISC) – This instrument focuses on communication styles in the
workplace. Not only did it help me understand my behaviors and communication
styles, it helped me discern how to recognize and communicate with others at work.
u OGL 360 Assessment of Leadership Final Portfolio (ALFP) – This assignment was the
culmination of my work in OGL 360. In it, I examined my core values to determine
what leadership means to me, described my future goals, and developed strategies
to reach them.
Data Sources con’t

u OGL340 Socrates - Life Design (SLD) – This assignment required me to think deeply
about what is important to me, where I’m at, where I want to be, and what comes
in-between. In it, I reviewed core values, addressed self-limitations, and set goals to
propel me into my desired life.
u WorkStyle Patterns Inventory-Manager (WSP-M) – This inventory assesses work
preferences and describes one’s strengths and weaknesses. It also offers insights into
what working environments will yield the greatest satisfaction and effectiveness. I
took this assessment twice, with two different, but similar results.
u WorkStyle Patterns Inventory-Innovator (WSP-I) – This inventory assesses work
preferences and describes one’s strengths and weaknesses. It also offers insights into
what working environments will yield the greatest satisfaction and effectiveness. I
took this assessment twice, with two different, but similar results.
Data Sources con’t

u Competency Test at 123test.com (C123) – This test took my responses to sample

situations and rated them on various scales such as noticing, taking initiative,
creating, and communicating. The results give greater insight into one’s behavioral
and mindset skills in the workplace.
u OGL 343 Social Processes Team Feedback (SPTF) – This self-assessment considered
my team-related behavior and leadership skills, and provided insights into how well I
communicate and function in a team.
u OGL 321 Clarifying Scope and Schedule in Project Management (CSSPM) – This
personal artifact describes my experiences with Project Management and how I
was able to incorporate it into my personal life.
 The following section includes
10 major themes that have
impacted my life. Gleaned from
My 10 Themes personal writings and
assessments, they shape who I
am and what I do, and give
guidance in preparing for my
future career.
Brief Introduction to Life Themes

The life themes I will be presenting in this analysis are:

Autonomy Advocacy Helping Others Problem-solving Accomplishment

Determination Leadership Creativity Balance Adventure

 Theme 1: Autonomy

Theme Statement:
Autonomy and freedom to choose where, when, and how I accomplish my
tasks are optimal for my work productivity and satisfaction.

u Supporting Data:
u I enjoyed being independent growing up and spent many hours in a tree so I could read, sing,
think, or enjoy the view without being told what to do. Another time, when living in California with
my mom and dad in a camp trailer, I enjoyed times when my mom and I could ride our
motorbike on a deserted freeway onramp without anyone around to tell us no. (PN)
Theme 1: Autonomy con’t

u I was self-employed for many years and loved being able to work when and how I pleased. This
increased my productivity because I could work late after the children went to bed, or even in
small snatches when I had a few minutes to work. (PN)
u When traveling to Europe for Study Abroad, I made sure to go early so I had time to do my own
thing before the rest of the group arrived. I thrived on the challenge of being self-reliant and the
freedom to choose my own itinerary each day without having to report in at night. (PN)
u Independence was my highest work value on the Super’s inventory. (SWVI)
u Autonomy/Independence was my second highest career anchor. (MCAA)
u My personality profile suggests I like to solve problems on my own, without burdening others, and
that I need independence and agency. (16P)
u According to my WSP Manager profile, I need complete latitude in establishing goals and
directing others. (WSP-M)
 Theme 1: Autonomy con’t

u Contradictory Evidence
u My DISC profile indicates I prefer clear and direct instructions when given a task. While this is true
if I’m doing work for someone else, once I know the desired outcome, I prefer to accomplish it in
my own way. (DISC)

u Reflection
u Autonomy is a strong preference for me. While I am capable of working under direct and
controlled supervision, I find it stressful and time-consuming. I work much faster, once I have the
objective in mind, without micromanagement. This is not to say I resist correction. In my years
formatting books for clients, I learned to listen to and identify their expectations, providing
frequent book proofs and examples to be sure we were on the same page. If they found errors or
didn’t like how it looked, that was simply part of the process, and I would work to correct it. My
desire was to make it everything they dreamed. I welcomed their input and guidance and
appreciated the ability to work on my own schedule and in my own way.
 Theme 2: Advocacy

Theme Statement:
I feel passionate about fighting against injustice and protecting the weak.

u Supporting Data:
u When my son’s kindergarten teacher made him feel ashamed for humming while he worked in
class, I felt unsettled. Over time, and as a result, I have become an advocate for those who don’t
fit into the social molds, especially those with autism or other behavioral or mental challenges. I
now seek to bring awareness to the plight of those with autism and mental illness to increase
understanding and acceptance by others. (PN)
Theme 2: Advocacy con’t

u When baby kittens were discovered in the neighbor’s boat, I knew they would die without
intervention. I determined to rescue them and do what I could to help them survive. When I
couldn’t get them all out, as some had crawled into the hull, I was haunted by thoughts of them
being trapped and dying. I returned many times and worked hard to free them. (PN)
u My political party identification gives me a strong desire to reduce the polarization in political
ideologies and between parties. I seek to increase understanding between those who disagree
and to help them find common ground. (IE)
u My Advocate profile indicates I have a desire to defend those who are marginalized or
downtrodden. (16P)
u My personality type suggests I takes up the cause of the oppressed and seek to rescue those in
need. (HJTT)
u My top-ranking career anchor is Sense of Service / Dedication to a Cause. (MCAA)
 Theme 2: Advocacy con’t

u Contradictory Evidence
u When I saw bullying occur in elementary school, rather than intervene, I stayed in the
background and out of everyone’s way. Although I was timid then, I felt strongly about the
injustice and am becoming more outspoken in arenas where I can make a difference. (PN)

u Reflection
u I am passionate about advocating for those who are unable to speak or act for themselves. So
much injustice in the world comes because of a lack of understanding. Many people have good
intentions, but they unknowingly cause harm or shame when they react to others based on
assumptions. In addition, there are so many who are marginalized or forgotten, simply because
they are out of sight. I want to bring awareness to such individuals and situations and do what I
can to increase understanding and empathy among others.
 Theme 3: Helping Others

Theme Statement:
Listening to others and helping them work through difficult challenges is part of
who I am.

u Supporting Data:
u Because I have experienced many challenges in my life, including autism, mental illness, and
bullying, I understand how others feel when facing similar challenges. My experiences increase
my empathy for those who suffer and give me deeper insights into how they can overcome their
challenges. When I’m able to help another find healing, I feel joy. Not only have I done some
good in the world, I find healing for myself as well. (PN)
Theme 3: Helping Others con’t

u My mom cared about me and always listened to me when I faced difficult problems. This made
a difference in my life, and I have a desire to do the same for others. (PN)
u I am interested in solving problems through listening empathically and helping others succeed. I
have an interest in teaching, healing, and developing others. (KCIA)
u I love helping people work through their problems. People say I’m good at empathizing and
listening, and I feel the world needs me to serve. (3Q)
u My high Agreeableness score on the Big 5 assessment indicates I feel empathy and enjoy helping
others. (B5)
u My top value is to help other people, to mentor, teach, coach, and heal. (VC)
 Theme 3: Helping Others con’t

u Contradictory Evidence
u Several of my assessments, including the Big 5, indicate I have low extraversion. This is true. I feel
tense in large groups. Even with small groups, or one-on-one, I need time to isolate and renew
myself afterward. Nevertheless, I feel great satisfaction and connection from helping others in
such a meaningful way.(PN)

u Reflection
u When I went to the Baltics for Study Abroad, I encountered a continent of introverts. Many there
feel uncomfortable with American-style friendliness, preferring to develop relationships slowly,
built on trust. Yet, even there, I found many who desired connection. I often feel the same way—
introverted but wanting to connect. Helping others overcome their challenges does this for me,
and I find that, in lifting others, I lift myself.
 Theme 4: Problem Solving

Theme Statement:
I see patterns everywhere and love to solve puzzles, make insightful connections,
and identify solutions.

u Supporting Data:
u In my Personal Narrative, I saw many interconnecting patterns in life reminding me of an
interwoven tapestry. These patterns helped me gain insights and draw conclusions, ultimately
helping me discover deeper truths about what is important and what motivates me. (PN)
Theme 4: Problem Solving con’t

u When first taking ownership of Braintree Forms, the company was struggling to make a profit. By
noticing patterns and considering options, I identified a way to increase its profit margin by
buying raw materials in bulk. This required finding solutions for both financing and storing the
products, then customizing them when orders were placed. My success in this area benefited us
financially and increased my enjoyment of business ownership. (PN)
u I love solving problems and discovering connections and truths. I do this by gathering information,
analyzing the data for associations, then identifying options and alternatives. (3Q)
u My Advocate personality type is characterized by insightfulness that can spot unusual patterns
and find creative solutions. (16P)
u My learning profile indicates I enjoy problem identification and coming up with creative solutions
and ideas. (KOLB)
u My results on the Competency test indicate I’m good at making connections and drawing
conclusions. (C123)
 Theme 4: Problem Solving con’t

u Contradictory Evidence
u During my OGL343 Social Processes class, one teammate remarked that the country came
together after 9/11. We all agreed, but my instructor pointed out this was not always the case. My
easy acceptance of his statement constituted groupthink and contradicts my assertion of seeing
patterns and finding truths. (SPTF)

u Reflection
u I have loved putting jigsaw puzzles together since I was three. My family remarked I had an
intuitive knack for identifying shapes and colors and could connect pieces together almost as
fast as they came out of the box. When considering other kinds of problems, whether it be a
personal relationship, a trauma response, or a process at work, the process is much the same—
they all contain patterns. Once these are identified, one can begin finding connections and
options. To me, discovering solutions is exciting and brings fulfillment.
 Theme 5: Accomplishment

Theme Statement:
I feel accomplished when completing projects and assignments.

u Supporting Data:
u The first time my dad asked me to pull weeds, I was furious. At first, I procrastinated and dawdled,
but upon settling in and working in earnest, I came to enjoy it. Seeing the cleared spot of ground
when I finished brought deep satisfaction. This experience helped me discover how much I
enjoyed working on and completing projects, especially when I could then see the results. (PN)
Theme 5: Accomplishment con’t

u When I studied abroad, I was required to complete and submit a 20-page paper for the class
using only my cell phone. It was a great feeling when I finished. Class assignments in other courses
have brought a similar sense of accomplishment. (PN)
u I love accomplishing, cleaning, organizing, and creating order. (3Q)
u My high score in the Conscientiousness category indicates that I finish tasks with attention to
detail. (B5)
u My highest DISC leadership score was Conscientious. This means I follow through on projects, look
for successful outcomes, and am productive. (DISC)
u After taking Project Management, I created a project plan to clean my closet. Having the
structure of a project plan relieved my anxiety, and completing the project brought a feeling of
accomplishment and pride. (CSSPM)
 Theme 5: Accomplishment con’t

u Contradictory Evidence
u My learning style indicates I like to let others implement rather than do it myself. This can be true
when the results are ambiguous, obscure, or not highly visible. I like to see clear results for my
efforts. (KOLB)

u Reflection
u I’ve been called a “Finisher” by people who know me. I enjoy using up the last bit of shampoo so
I can throw away the bottle, and I love having leftovers—finishing them off clears up space in the
fridge. While some might consider this a peculiarity, I find it very useful when given projects to
complete at work or when embarking on an undertaking at home. Once started, it’s difficult to
stop, even for meals or sleep, until it’s done. My book clients loved this about me because they
knew they would have their books in time for Christmas. For me, it means I reap the benefits of the
completed project and feel a great sense of accomplishment and joy.
 Theme 6: Determination

Theme Statement:
I work hard and am determined to not give up.

u Supporting Data:
u As a 12-year-old, delivering newspapers required getting up early in the morning so I could be to
the pickup point by 4:00 am. It required hard work to haul the papers around on my bike for the
two hours I was out every morning, but I was determined to see it through. I even went the extra
mile to be sure each paper ended up on the porch, not in the street, on the roof, or under a car.
(PN)
Theme 6: Determination con’t

u When starting a new family business, I worked hard and, often, late into the night to keep the
company afloat. So much depended on its success, and I was willing to put any effort into
making it work. Even when things got rough, I didn’t give up. (PN)
u When considering study abroad, I was determined to go even though it required a lot of
preparation. At the time, I was working and going to school full-time, so it wasn’t easy to do.
Although it was hard, I’m glad I didn’t give up as Study Abroad was a life-changing event. (PN)
u My leadership profile describes me as Dependable. (DISC)
u The results of my Competency test indicate I persevere in spite of setbacks and have an “I can
do hard things” attitude. (C123)
u I work hard to reach my goals. (WSP-I)
 Theme 6: Determination con’t

u Contradictory Evidence
u When my brother was teaching me how to ride uphill on a motorcycle, I fell off and flipped my
bike the first time I tried. I had skinned my leg and it hurt, and, in that moment, I was ready to quit.
Because it was important to my brother, I got back on and tried again, but if he hadn’t been
there, I might have gone home. (PN)

u Reflection
u Going back to work after selling my business was rough. I was used to self employment but now
suddenly had to report to a boss. This wasn’t easy—I chafed at being told what to do, and my
boss and I didn’t always see eye-to-eye. At one point, I felt so frustrated I was ready to quit. Then
my sense of determination kicked in—after all, I wasn’t a quitter. A fair reassessment of the
situation showed I needed to learn humility. I chose to stay. As a result of working through the
challenges, I gained satisfaction, knowing my efforts made a difference for the company. Best of
all, my boss has become my cherished friend. I’m grateful for how this theme has impacted and
enriched my life, and I know it will help me face future challenges.
 Theme 7: Leadership

Theme Statement:
I like to lead through serving, empowering, encouraging, and inspiring others.

u Supporting Data:
u I enjoy leading, although I didn’t realize it until becoming president of our church’s organization
for women. In this position, I found great satisfaction in serving others, teaching and inspiring
members to care for each other, and empowering them by delegating responsibilities. I
discovered that I could overcome personal fears of speaking in front of a group, and that even
though my efforts were imperfect, my example could inspire others to not give up. (PN)
Theme 7: Leadership con’t

u Leading my team at work was satisfying. There, I can encourage, inspire, and empower team
members by teaching and training them in the skills needed for their positions. I empower them
further when I welcome their ideas and input and involve them in team direction and processes.
(PN)
u My third ranking career anchor is Managerial Competence. (MCAA)
u My personality profile (Advocate) rates high for inspiring, persuasive communication in order to
bring about meaningful change in the lives of others. It also indicates I prefer not to
micromanage, but to empower and encourage. (16P)
u The Jung Typology indicates I am well suited to inspirational professions such as teaching and
religious leadership. (HJTT)
u I see leadership as empowering others, inspiring a shared vision, guiding, modeling the way, and
serving. (ALFP)
u I am described as Visionary who motivates others to think outside the box. (WSP-I)
 Theme 7: Leadership con’t

u Contradictory Evidence
u I scored just average in the “Leading” category in the Competency test, and the DISC
Leadership inventory implied I wouldn’t do well as a leader. The Big 5 assessment also indicated
my Extroversion score was too low for effective leading. All three instruments considered
leadership in the traditional sense of managing and directing. (C123, DISC, B5)

u Reflection
u Throughout my studies in Organizational Leadership, I have been most impressed with Servant
and Authentic Leadership styles. Traditional styles, in which one person gives orders and stands
alone at the top, do not appeal to me. Instead, I see leadership as a cooperative activity in
which all are invited to bring their ideas and work together in reaching the group’s objectives.
Here my low extroversion score is a strength as it facilitates listening, encourages input, and
develops relationships, thus utilizing group member’s diverse ideas and skills. Here the focus is on
the group, not the ‘lone man at the top.’
 Theme 8: Creativity

Theme Statement:
I enjoy being creative and resourceful in my work.

u Supporting Data:
u When working as a book layout and design specialist, I used creative skills to create heirloom
family history books for our clients. While this required technical computer skills and knowledge of
layout and design software, I relied heavily on my artistic sense to guide my placement of photos
and design graphics, selection of type faces, and positioning of headers and footers. Several
former clients have expressed an interest in having me design future books even though that is no
longer my official profession. (PN)
Theme 8: Creativity con’t

u People tell me I’m good at graphic design and compositional writing. One English professor
encouraged me to publish an article I wrote and to write and publish a personal memoir. (3Q)
u The Kuder Interests assessment shows I like to create art, products, and communications. (KCIA)
u The Kuder Skills assessment indicates I am confident with language, writing, music, and art, and
that I am intuitive, expressive, and original. (KSCA)
u My second highest work value is Creativity, meaning I enjoy being resourceful and inventive.
(SWVI)
u My personality profile describes me as being creative and having a vivid imagination. (16P)
u I scored high on the Openness to Experience category, which means I am creative and like to try
new things. (B5)
 Theme 8: Creativity con’t

u Contradictory Evidence
u The DISC instrument emphasizes my affinity to logic and precision. These skills are not typically
favorable for artistic expression. (DISC)

u Reflection
u I have a vivid imagination. My mouth waters at the thought of a lemon. The ‘movies’ that played
in my mind as a child were far more real than anything that has ever graced the big screen.
Music is life to me, creating stimulating connections and patterns that captivate my brain.
Although I don’t paint or draw, I see artistic beauty everywhere I look, in a sunrise, the pert smile
on a kitten’s face, the penetrating blue depths of my grandchild’s eyes or her fiery red hair and
her secret smile. Perhaps this is why I struggle in jobs that demand fine attention to numerical
detail, or endless, repetitive data entry. My soul cries out for artistic reprieve and longs to immerse
itself in the joy of creation.
 Theme 9: Balance

Theme Statement:
Having a balanced life with time for family, spirituality, and personal renewal is
important to me.

u Supporting Data:
u After the birth of my first child, I needed respite from my busy life. At the time, we had been living
in a tiny apartment with a long commute and working full-time. Then, while I was in the hospital
giving birth, my husband and family moved us into a temporary home, a beautiful little house,
where we would live while waiting for our new “fixer-upper” property to close. This week or two of
quiet solitude in this quaint little house, after my son’s birth, was peaceful, healing, and deeply
needed. (PN)
Theme 9: Balance con’t

u My third highest work value is Lifestyle, indicating I don’t want my time at work to interfere with my
time spent with family, friends, and leisure. (SWVI)
u Even though I wasn’t excited about building a shed, spending that time with my husband was
rewarding to me. (PN)
u My second and third ranking dreams are to retire and go on a road trip with my husband, to
spend time with him and visit family. (DDW)
u My personality profile (Advocate) indicates I occasionally need privacy, that I’m prone to
burnout and sensitive to stressors. (16P)
u My leadership profile acknowledges I like calmness and peace and tend to be stressed. (DISC)
u As indicated in my LIfe design, I desire time for renewal and family. (SLD)
 Theme 9: Balance con’t

u Contradictory Evidence
u My Competency test results indicate that stress might be necessary for me in order to feel like
things are happening or that I’m progressing. While I’ve wondered if this may be true, stress can
easily become unbalanced and affect my health and my outlook on life. (C123)

u Reflection
u Finding balance has never been easy for me, and it’s taken time to understand how important it
is. While the occasional crisis gets my attention and inspires heroic action, constant stress wears
me down and decreases my effectiveness. In reviewing my Personal Narrative, I was impressed
by how much I enjoyed times when my life was in balance, when there was time for physical and
spiritual renewal, or when pressure to perform was replaced with space to just be. I look forward
to the time when I can retire and focus on my own projects, relationships with my family, and
service to others. In the meantime, I’ve come to see how vital is my need to slow down and enjoy
my life.
 Theme 10: Adventure

Theme Statement:
I thrive on the adventure of learning, seeing new things, going new places, and
exploring new ideas.

u Supporting Data:
u Studying Abroad and exploring North-Eastern Europe on my own was the best kind of adventure.
It challenged me to do hard things and grow in using new skills. Seeing new people, experiencing
a new culture, and taking in the beautiful countryside brought a newness of spirit. Overcoming
challenges in this environment was exciting and brought great personal empowerment. (PN)
Theme 10: Adventure con’t

u I’ve always loved learning new things, whether through reading books for fun, researching topics
that interest me, or returning to school to further my education. The excitement of learning
something new energizes me and helps me see the world through new eyes. (PN)
u One of my favorite memories is of living in a camp trailer in the woods with my mom and
exploring the California countryside on a motorbike. I also loved riding horses and climbing trees.
Exploring life in this way brought a sense of adventure and fun. (PN)
u Because of my identity as a Student, I see myself as a learner and gatherer of knowledge. In
addition to the excitement of learning, this is important to me because gaining knowledge and
skills will allow me to serve others more effectively and in different capacities. (IE)
u My personality profile (Advocate) indicates I “avoid the ordinary” and seek for a greater purpose
in life, and that I dislike everyday routines and work of a repetitive nature. (16P)
u My learning profile shows I like to explore new ideas. (KOLB)
 Theme 10: Adventure con’t

u Contradictory Evidence
u As much as I enjoy traveling and seeing new things, I don’t always like to take time for it. This may
be because I get caught up in the execution of other themes, such as accomplishing goals and
working hard.

u Reflection
u My definition of adventure may be different than another’s. My mom once said that adventure is
walking a hundred miles with sand in your shoes. That isn’t my idea of adventure. Instead, to me,
adventure is the excitement of discovering things are different that what I always thought they
were, of exploring a new countryside or idea, or realizing my life is about to change and I can let
go of old, boring routines. Adventure is change, and I embrace it.
My Personal Vision Statement

To reveal the
inner beauty and value
of each soul and all creation
Reflection:
When developing my vision statement, I first looked through my 10 themes, writing down all the key
words and phrases. I included other statements I had recorded previously. This filled an entire page. With
my highlighter, I went back through, marking phrases that held special significance, thus narrowing
down my selections. I reviewed and pondered my selections, frequently pausing to look inward. Then, in
reading through the course material, I found helpful guidance in the Vision/Purpose powerpoint. By
filling in the statement, “My purpose for living my life the way I do is…” I finally identified a vision
statement that fully reflected my core values.
My Personal Mission Statement

My primary purpose in life is to strengthen my family, who mean everything to

me. I will do this by building a retirement plan with my husband and
empowering my children and grandchildren to grow into responsible, caring,
and happy adults. Along the way, I will serve others, make time for renewal
and adventure, create and appreciate beauty, and engage in a cause that
inspires me.

Reflection:
After I formed my Personal Vision statement, I once again returned to my 10 Themes. Some were more
important to me than others and needed to be part of my Mission statement. As I wrote and rewrote
possible statements, however, I realized something was missing—something so vital, yet so much a
constant part of my life as to be overlooked—my family. In fact, I could easily have included it as an
eleventh theme. When I placed family as the central theme of my mission statement, it all came
together, finally, and my mission in life became clear.
 Creating this Thematic Analysis
helped me see truths I hadn’t

Conclusion
seen before, including answers to
questions of what I enjoy, what I
do well, and how I can contribute
to the world (Himes, 2016). These
pieces of coloured glass in my
window of life give direction and
clarity as I look through and seek
to determine my future.
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