IF IT wasn't for Guiding, I never would have ...
To find out the answer, you will have to read the book written by a 23-year-old Cleethorpes woman.
Rebecca Craven has published the e-book about the ins and outs of Girlguiding as part of her professional writing degree at the Grimsby Institute.
The book offers a positive outlook on the benefits, experiences and opportunities Girlguiding has to offer.
Aimed at senior section members it can be useful to Guides, adult leaders and non-members looking to join.
Rebecca, of Primrose Way, said: "The book tells you all about our history, awards and qualifications that can be earned, and best of all, real members' quotes and experiences not only from the UK, but worldwide, showing how broad, inclusive, and down-right fun guiding truly is."
Rebecca, who rejoined the Guides aged 18 as a senior section member, saw a gap in the market for a book such as hers.
"I noticed there was a market for a book like mine, that tells experiences and includes all the opportunities for us, because most of Girlguiding's publications are for the younger sections."
She added: "I've been in Girlguiding UK in many different roles – I began as a Brownie, and continued into Guides, but it wasn't until I was 18 when I rejoined that I realised what I had been missing; and better yet, how I could make up for it.
"I took on the role of leading a Rainbow unit – girls aged five to seven who are absolutely full of energy and literally brighten up a rubbish day.
"At the same time, I was recommended to join my local Ranger unit for young women aged 14 to 25, and five years later I'm still there, with no intention to leave just yet.
"I also help to run a Brownie unit now, and I'm my county's PR adviser.
"It really is hard to imagine my life without guiding. Within 18 months of rejoining I had already been to France, Belgium and Switzerland, been one of thousands of members taking over Pleasure Island for the centenary, and become part of my Ranger group's committee, meaning I could develop skills and flourish my CV in the process.
"Guiding is a big part of my life and my guiding friends helped me out massively – I wouldn't have been able to write the book without their quotes, book lending, and patience when I pestered them for more answers. I'm not sure they know how truly grateful I am.
"I'd also really like to thank my ex-tutor Chris Dows at the Grimsby Institute because he had faith in me and kept me going – even when I complained – along with family, friends and my fiance for their support."
The book, If It Wasn't For Guiding, I Never Would Have ... costs £3.08 from Amazon.
To find out more about Rebecca, you can visit her blog at beckrumblogs.wordpress.com
