Kayaking: Dr. Jeff Fulks' perspective on relaxation, exercise and leadership

October 24, 2007

On a warm Saturday, Dr. Jeff Fulks is most likely kayaking.

As the department chair of Behavioral Sciences, the coordinator for graduate studies in Organizational Leadership, the assessment officer for LifeWorks (The Center for Leadership and Life Calling), a committee member, an instructor and student adviser, Dr. Fulks knows the importance of incorporating regular relaxation activities into his busy schedule.

The numerous lakes, rivers and streams in the greater Springfield area offer a variety of outdoor water recreation. For Dr. Fulks, a morning of peaceful kayaking on Lake Springfield is only a mile drive from his house.

Dr. Fulks started this hobby after friends invited him to go kayaking earlier this summer. He found kayaking to be a pleasant and unique experience, which soon led to purchasing kayaks: a blue one for Dr. Fulks and a red one for his wife, Diane.

Away from the hustle of daily responsibilities, Dr. Fulks relaxes and enjoys scenery from the perspective of his kayak. “It’s a different angle to see nature from,” he said. “It’s a much different experience from being in a motorboat.”

In addition to relaxation, Dr. Fulks kayaks for health benefits. Exercising about four times per week, Dr. Fulks has incorporated kayaking as an upper-body workout in his routine. “The body is a system, and one area helps the others to function,” he said.

By combining the benefits of relaxation and exercise, Dr. Fulks believes in “approaching leadership from a holistic perspective,” he said.

Dr. Fulks pointed out that “successful leaders include the physical component; they focus on improving all areas of mind, body and spirit,” he said. “It all works together.”

Dr. Fulks urges development of well-rounded leaders, “I encourage students — for success — to get involved in recreational activities,” he said.

For more information about Organizational Leadership, visit Graduate Studies.