I’m back from Camp Mighty, and I’m struggling to find the words to describe my experience. Unfortunately there is one word that continually comes to the front of my brain – disappointing.
After Camp Mighty 2011, I read a ton of blog posts about how amazing and life changing it was. I was really excited to join this group of women (and a few dudes!) and feel the love and support in the room. I wanted to get with everyone and talk dreams, offer and get advice, and generally feel inspired to be a part of something bigger than myself. Instead the weekend felt rather cliquish. In stark contrast to last month’s Bloggy Bootcamp, I felt the leaders of Camp Mighty were not very approachable. In fact, when any of them walked by me, I received little more than brief eye contact and a slight smile (if I smiled first). Some camp attendees were flat out cold and rude to me. Halfway through Day 1, we all received a gift from camp sponsors Bing and Wantest that related to something off our Life Lists. Some campers received very personalized and thoughtful gifts, others of us felt like we got some generic leftover items. One of my new camp friends received a book on making a Life List – despite emailing in her Life List two weeks before camp. When it was time to meet up with our assigned smaller groups to discuss our Life Lists, mine had not been printed and included in the packet. At the last panel of the weekend during the Q&A session, I raised my hand and wasn’t called on. A good word for what I felt all weekend was invisible.
That’s not to say I had a bad time, because I didn’t. I had an amazing time. I met some awesomely inspiring people, including one major hero of mine (an entire post dedicated to that HERE). I think I made some new life long online friends. I passed out a few business cards. I got tons of positive response to a business idea I’ve been swatting around. I wore a daring (for me) outfit and got complimented on my style. I soaked up some sun and I got some cool swag. What’s the saying? A bad day at Camp Mighty beats a good day at the office?
I also learned a lot about myself. I was reminded that I’m not going to be friends with everyone. I’m not going to fit into every clique, and that’s okay. I found I don’t need to rely on a conference to teach me how to achieve my dreams. With the support of my husband, family, and friends, I’m already there.
I may not be cool enough for camp, but I’m happy with myself. And that will take me far.
I struggled with writing this post (legit tears running down my cheeks) because I’m worried I sound ungrateful, which couldn’t be farther from the truth. I am super humbled that so many people helped send me to Camp Mighty and I had a great time. It may not have been what I expected, but every experience leads to the next, and my life is on the path to greatness. I am a Mightier Mindy and I’m more inspired and motivated than ever.
Several more detailed posts are coming in the next few days. I have a ton of exciting things to share with you all.
xo – Mindy
