(Principles are basic truths that, when applied, cause success to come to you easier and quicker.)


This S3MC uses flying as a metaphor. It’s about a lot more than flying.

When learning to become a pilot one of the significant steps – some might rightly call it THE significant step – is the occasion of your first solo flight. You’re it, no one sitting there ready to save you from your own behavior. It’s a visceral graphic of self-responsibility, self-accountability.

The classic model for the solo is for your instructor to have you let him/her out the aircraft, taxi back out to the runway, and do three consecutive takeoffs, circuits of the field, and landings before returning to the (cheers of the!) instructor. You’re on your own for all three circuits. For the first time in your life of flight, “If it is to be, it’s up to me” as the old saying goes.

Personal sidebar – As I was coming down for my first landing (it’s called ‘being on Final’; the word Final can have several connotations, some not so pleasant) the previously calm wind picked up, becoming gusty. My rapidly building tension suddenly released when I noticed I was automatically and accurately compensating for the gusts. I realized – I can do this!

Later, driving away from the airport after that personally monumental experience, one put off for 40 years, now finally achieved, is still easily recalled physically and emotionally, but unexplainable in words.

Life presents us with many opportunities for Flying Solo. To benefit from them we have to take the controls, perhaps get some training and support, rise above the tension, and take off! Solos in life are so worth it.


Coaching Point: Where are you now flying solo?


Copyright 2022 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.