The phone rings. It’s my friend David; “Looking forward to today! Are we still on for our swim?”

A combination of working hard in my personal and professional life means I’ve lost track. I’d forgotten that I’d promised to take David for his first open water swim since he learned to swim last year at age 48. #situational awareness

It was the last thing I wanted to do, but I had been the one who persuaded him to take on the challenge of swimming in the first place. I couldn't let him down, that would be rude. “Absolutely! – Really looking forward to it” #cultural norm

I hadn’t prepared anything. I didn’t even know where my kit was. I asked Dave, “Can you bring the packed lunches and gear?” (phew, saves me a job) #workload management

Right, back to my daughter. She’s had an awful start to university. I drive to the lake thinking how I can help. I should be thinking about the swim and in particular what today’s conditions mean for me and Dave. #distraction

I carry on driving and thinking about my daughter’s issues. As I arrive at the lake, the weather looks pretty glum. It looks and feels cold; it occurs to me that I haven’t checked the weather and water temperature. Never mind, I’ve swum here 30 or 40 times before. I tell myself it’ll be ok. #confirmation bias

We get into the water and its very cold. Its’ colder than I’ve ever experienced, but David follows my lead without question because he trusts me. After all, I’m the experienced one. #authority gradient

We start the swim I had rapidly planned out in my head in the car, but it didn't feel right. I knew I’d set us on the wrong path and was setting my team (David) up for failure but the pressure to not disappoint him is still clouding my judgement. #plan continuation bias

I started thinking about what I’d learnt over the years of outdoor swimming. The risk of cramp, hypothermia or shock. In cold water the body can start to re-direct the blood to your vital organs. It can all happen very quickly. The statement in my head becomes clear - there is a very real risk of getting into distress if we stay in the water.
I decide to cut the swim short and gradually recover the situation. #decision making

Our changing environment during our work and leisure time can have a dramatic effect on our ability to function physically and cognitively. This is why understanding Human Factors is important in every element of life and work. #Human Factors for Business

 

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