Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Thanks, George!

I just left a #ISTE2015 session presented by George Couros (@gcouros) about developing the Innovator Mindset.  Whenever I have the chance to attend George's sessions, it is an emotional and inspirational thrill ride.  George never fails to make me both laugh a cry in the same session.  If you ever get a chance to listen to George speak, I guarantee you will feel a little better about education.

George's blog, The Principal of Change (http://georgecouros.ca/blog/) has given me a lot to think about lately.  His message often enlightens me on the mistakes I am making as a passionate educational leader.

  • I need to develop more patience.  
  • I need to remember that each person has a perspective.  
  • I need to remember that the changes I want in myself and others are no more or less important than those of others, and that each person's context is different.  

What George has helped me to understand is that while things might not change fast enough to my liking, they will not change at all unless we can figure out ways to walk forward together.  I've also come to understand that while tasks and new things and purpose are all important, people are the most important.  This is not just a matter of ethics or morality.  Change simply cannot happen without the involvement of others, and we must find common direction together.

So thank you again, George.  I very much appreciate the message you share and your ability to bring me back to ground, allowing me to work with others, even those who are the most reluctant, in a way that keeps me from "melting down" and more importantly, keeps us moving forward as a team.

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