Fellow Scouter Jeremy recently asked me, “Mark, what are the top three things you’ve learned as a Scouter this year?” It was such a great question that I couldn’t resist sharing my reflections—not just with him, but with all of you too!
2024 has been a year of growth, challenges, and big decisions, and these are the three lessons that stood out for me:
1. It’s Okay to Say No
As Scout leaders, we often feel like we need to say yes to everything. Whether it’s running a district event, helping out at another Scout group, or even squeezing in an extra activity, the calendar fills up fast.
This year, I realized it’s absolutely okay to say no.
One standout moment for me was when the district camping competition—an event I love—clashed with my son’s birthday. For the first time, I didn’t even consider asking my family if I could pop down for an hour. It was a flat-out no, and I have no regrets.
Another tough decision came when I was double-booked: Harrow District asked me months in advance to run a firelighting base, but a beloved BushScout event was scheduled on the same day. As much as my heart is with BushScout, Harrow booked me first. It was a hard call, but sticking to my commitments is something I take seriously.
Saying no doesn’t mean you’re letting people down—it means you’re respecting your own time, your family, and your well-being.
2. Scouting Isn’t for Everyone
This was a tough pill to swallow at first. When Scouts left the group, I’d immediately wonder: Is it me? Am I a bad leader? Is the program boring?
Over time, I’ve learned to let go of that self-doubt. Sometimes, Scouting just doesn’t fit into someone’s life. One family left because their daughter’s ballet class clashed with Scout night—no hard feelings, just a scheduling conflict.
Even in my own family, my son loves Cubs and everything outdoorsy, while my daughter couldn’t care less about camping or getting muddy. And you know what? That’s okay!
Scouting is incredible, but it’s not for everyone. Realizing this has been liberating—it’s not personal, it’s just life.
3. Change Is Inevitable—And That’s Okay
If there’s one constant in Scouting (and life), it’s change. This year, I had to adapt to several big shifts, including the retirement of the term “Scout Leader.” Now, we’re officially “team volunteers.” At first, I was frustrated—after all, we’ve worked hard to earn those Wood Beads and titles.
But I’ve come to realize that a title doesn’t define what we do. Whether I’m called a Scout Leader or a team volunteer, my role at my group hasn’t changed. I’m still here every week, guiding young people and creating amazing experiences.
Another big change was the new membership software replacing Compass. The initial adjustment was rocky (wasn’t it always?), but as time went on, I’ve seen leaders adapt and even start to appreciate the new system. Change takes time, but it’s often not as bad as it seems.
What About You?
So, those are my top three lessons from 2024:
- It’s okay to say no.
- Scouting isn’t for everyone.
- Change is inevitable, and that’s okay.
Now, it’s your turn! What have you learned this year as a Scout leader? What changes are you planning to make in 2025? Let’s share and learn from each other—drop your thoughts in the comments below!
Here’s to another year of growth, adventures, and Scouting magic. 🏕️
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