My evaluation of the FIT 2005

Today, july the 7th 2006, one year after the FIT 2005 I want to make an evaluation of my first year as firewalking instructor.

First the facts: so far I have given 7 firewalks for about 170 persons and at this moment 10 other firewalks are planned or in negotiation, one a big event for about 400 people!

The FIT 2005 really changed my life. Before I came to the FIT I knew that I was interested and attracted by fire and firewalking, during and after the training it was so clear for me that it was an inner desire to become a professional firewalking instructor. And the FIT gave me the tools and the way to do it.
Very important for me was the business part of the training. That made me think, plan and act so that I had already my first firewalk ready before I returned to Belgium. Now I have my permanent wood-supplier (mainly oak, beech and ash) and a team of 4 assistants who look after the fire for me while I’m preparing the group.

I mainly work for teams. I don’t organize the firewalks myself but in the last year I made myself as firewalking instructor known to about 40-50 outdoor organisations in Belgium and Holland and I work for them as subcontractor. It was a hard work to do my own public relations but I managed to make lot of contacts and to convince people. Some were really enthusiastic about firewalking.

The FIT taught me to set my goals and to go for it with determination. It was not always easy, but I’m proud I did it and as my motto was during the training: I did it ‘my way’. I didn’t know myself as a commercial man, but now I see that being commercial is not easy, but a lot more easy when I’m convinced.

Not only the business part of the training was very important for me, but also the inspiration of you both Rolf and Owsa, and of your staff. The deep connection to nature and the respect for the nature and all what is that you all showed to us was beautiful and inspired me. Also the way you all wanted to share your experience with us was for me very inspiring, because it reflects the way I want to act in my groups.

Of course the support of Reinhild, my wife, was very important for me. She was a real help and support for me in finding my own way as firewalking instructor.

Rolf and Owsa, the FIT was a great and tremendous experience, and I want to thank both of you. And if you ever need a staff member, let me know.

Sincerely

Pol Van Helsen

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