Competence

A complex and contentious word in any situation, but more so in the outdoors.
I spend a lot of my consultancy time explaining the application of, and need for an understanding of, the HSE's 4 recognised measures of competence in an outdoor leader (relevant qualification, alternative qualification, in-house training & experience) - and how they need to be applied when dealing with dynamic risk situations.
Obviously (i think) qualification is an excellent starting point, most people will need a good understanding to pass, and most qualification assessments nowadays are complex multi layered events - but experience, past, current and future are vital.
Today i passed my first non mountain qualification - 2* canoe and kayak - a measure of personal competency, group management and safety awareness - a pre requisite for moving on to coaching and instructing boating qualifications. But I've been around long enough to know that now the real work (even though it'll look a lot like playing) begins, the journey up the hierachy of competence;
Unconsciously incompetent - not knowing what you dont know.
Consciously incompetent - knowing that you dont know.
Consciously competent - knowing you can do it if you think about it.
Unconsciously competent - doing it right without thinking about it. Or as i like to call it, Jedi level.

So if you see me out playing on the water - remember its work. Honest guv......