Thinking about the 8 characteristics of the Innovator's Mindset...one of the first things that comes to mind is that I can relate to all of these~WHEW! That feels good. I also have had the experience of sharing these with many teachers through professional development sessions and they seem to have a similar response. These anchors for innovation make the concept attainable instead of allusive. Another HUGE sigh of relief.
I keep circling back to #8 Reflective. I believe that this could be the most important characteristic here but the one that is put on the back burner often for many reasons. I have been guilty of making excuses for not fully reflecting on my work day. The excuses have run the gamut from
- I simply do not have time!
- I am too exhausted to reflect.
- Why does it matter anyway?
But really, when I really reflect I know I must and I realize the importance of it too. So how do I do this on a daily basis? By modeling of course. This happens in many ways. Sometimes I write in my notebook. I am big on taking notes and jotting thoughts down in little notebooks. I keep several around for that. Another method I like to employ is simply talking it out in a casual manner. I keep several thought partners on speed dial so that I can break down the day's thinking and learning. Of course, it's even better when I can do this in person.
Bottom line, this is hard. It's hard to hit pause and really think. It's hard to hit pause, really think, and then take action on the reflection. It's hard to hit pause, really think, and ask other's what they think too. But guess what? I know that is when we have the most opportunity for growing ourselves and our organizations. When we can be actionable about the feedback we receive, we are better for it...and our students will be better because of it too.
So...reflect...and do it like you mean it! I promise to hit pause...and to be actionable about my reflections.
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