Feeling overwhelmed by the uncertainty, change and disruption that continues to take place? Gosh, who isn’t!?
If so, there’s one question to ask yourself that can help you stay inspired, motivate and focused. In fact, you might even consider displaying the answer someplace where you will see it regularly.
What’s that question?
Why?
Your why, or your intentions for being an educator or leader is the greatest power you have.
That’s because if you know your why – that is, your real reason for teaching, presenting, running a meeting, leading your school or organisation – you’ll be able to stay focused and motivated even during disruptive times.
I’m guessing you didn’t become an educator or leader to comply with a system, but rather you joined your professional role to be of service in intentional ways.
That service is based on your values, history, identities, hopes, dreams and your own meaning and purpose.
Think of it this way…
Captains of ships are effective when they know their destination and know the system (the ship) for getting to that destination.
But to be effective, motivated and inspired especially when storms impact their journey, it’s important that captains stay connected to their reasons why they sail ships.
The same is true for you.
When you know your why, you’re connected to the fuel that helps you navigate your own professional ship.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself to help you connect or reconnect to your why:
1. What are 5 reasons you became an educator, or leader?
2. Thinking about your current students, learners or team you lead, what is the greatest hope you have for them based on the work you are doing?
3. I’m an educator because…
4. I believe education can…
5. My content is important to my learners because…
You might even consider displaying your answers someplace where you can see it on a daily basis.
On behalf of all of us at Unleash Learning™, we’re cheering you on!
Dr. William DeJean
