What might it look like to become deeply curious about the sense of agency that educators and students have in our schools?
Saying No
Some Opinions Aren’t Worth Sharing
And feeling better right now is golden. We need to find ways to feel better. Because when I give myself a pause, and when I'm feeling better, then I can get deeply curious. About the world around me, about why things are or are not happening - and getting curious and asking good questions is a big part of discovering how we can make things better.
This is the Work
Knowing this gives us great power. Every word and interaction has the power to grow hope in other people. We can grow a sense of hope for the future. We can grow their belief that they are capable beyond on measure. We can grow everyone's sense of wellbeing. We can remind others that there are good people in this world who will stand in their corner, have their back, and cheer for them.
Wilted but Worthy
My challenge to all of us is this: get the rest you need to come back stronger. Get the rest you need to see others more clearly. Get the rest you need to challenge your limiting beliefs more honestly. To be relentless in your pursuit of cultivating environments where others can thrive. Where you can thrive.
The Little Things are Big Things
There is a lot about the world that is really hard right now. Small words can restore hope. Small words and small gestures are big. They are especially big for our students.
Quieting Our Insides
We get one beautiful, important shot at living a good life.
Modeling What We Expect
I'm writing this as a reminder to all of us. What would happen if instead of jumping to criticism, we instead paused to ask ourselves: how we are modeling what we expect? What would happen if we were ridiculously in charge of our own learning, personal behavior, and growth?
People before Workers
Rather, if we take the time we need, we will be better rested and more emotionally available for others. This looks different for everyone. There is no one right way to recharge. But knowing ourselves and giving ourselves what we need is the first step to taking care of others as well.
Falling Down the Stairs
What would happen if every time we slipped down the metaphorical staircase in one area or another, instead of rushing to shame and judgement and self-defeating thoughts, we instead allowed others to pick us up. What would happen if we dusted ourselves off and then allowed our experiences to teach us how to be better next time?
Overfunctioning
As Jim Elliot said, "Wherever you are, be all there."
MEGHAN LAWSON 