Learning, from Sea to Summit

I learn so much from others. But for me, having the time to process and reflect on what I've learned is essential. Hiking provides me with an opportunity to do just that. It gives me some time to think, offers a good metaphor for some of my insights, and reminds me of how much I still need to learn. 

So, a little of what I have learned...

1. There is difference between taking risks and being reckless. Although it's impossible to prepare for every eventuality, it makes sense to gather as much information before hand as possible. A solid plan and the right tools can make all the difference.

1. My travelling companion. Hiking on my own means I need to take precautions and be prepared.

2. There are times when it's necessary to put your head down and just power through. But there are also times when you need to pause to look up, take a breath, and make sure that you're still on the right path. Sometimes there are clear markers to guide you, and other times the path is less obvious. 

2. Thank goodness for trail markers. 

3. There will be seemingly insurmountable obstacles. But overcoming adversity often leads to innovative solutions and amazing opportunities. 

3. Can't go over it. Need to go around it. 

4. Periods of darkness and fear are inevitable. There are times when you will be certain that you're on the wrong path, that you're headed in the wrong direction...

4. The creepy part. Reminds me of the forest with the monkeys in the Wizard of Oz.

5. But have faith. Darkness can be followed by great beauty and light. 

5. So beautiful.

6. Being mindful of limitations is a strength, not a weakness. It is only by recognizing our limitations that we can continue to learn and grow. 

6. Wouldn't it be helpful to have signs like this in life? "Just a heads up, there's some hard crap ahead, so..."

7. Independence and confidence are important. But there are times when you will need some help to continue to move forward. 

7. I've learned when to grab the rope. 

8. As much as you plan ahead, unforeseen circumstances will arise. Often these are beyond our control. The only thing that we can control, is how we respond. 

8. Yup. Snow. Awesome.

 9. Take the time to appreciate and celebrate when the path is smooth and things are going well.

9. A different view around every corner.

10. And be grateful for the little things that make the journey a bit less treacherous. 

10. Stairs. Helpful. 

11. It's important to find a balance between looking ahead and staying rooted in the present. Focussing only on the path ahead can cause you to lose your footing. 

11. Sometimes it seems easier to go across the log. Except when it's slippery. 

12. There will always be an easier way...

12. The gondola is easier, but so much less rewarding. 

13. But the more difficult route may get you to where you really need to be. 

13. Sometimes you just need to slog through the mud. Might as well try to enjoy it. 

14. The journey is never really over. To live is to learn. Even at the summit, there are always more paths to take. 

14. Taking a moment to breathe and be grateful. 

It's Not You, It's Me- The Common Denominator

It starts with me...

It's not you, it's me. And I don't mean that in the cliched, "It's actually really you" way. It really is me...

I've always imagined that I was fairly articulate, a good communicator. Although I was slow to begin reading and writing in elementary school, once I caught on, I quickly developed a deep appreciation for the intricacies of language. I am mindful of the incredible power of words- their ability to shift perceptions and transform thinking. I've always felt that clear, transparent communication is essential to building trusting, collaborative relationships. So needless to say, it's been a bit of eye opener to realize that I actually kind of suck at it. Ok, "suck" might be a bit strong... Let's just say, it's an area of growth for me.

Fortunately, I have some incredibly wise mentors in my life. I've written in previous posts how these individuals have helped me to find my edge, and to move past it into new understanding and learning. They push me to examine and question my own thinking, to consider my motivations for doing what I do. They encourage, support and challenge me every day. And they're not afraid to tell me when I'm wrong...

So here's where the "it's me" part comes in. In conversation with a couple of these wise individuals over this past week, I've come to realize that in every scenario where I've felt frustrated, or ineffective in my interactions with others, the common denominator was me. I may have felt like I was communicating effectively, but if there was confusion or concern as a result, I failed to communicate effectively. I may have felt like I was showing compassion and care in my interactions with others, but if there was anxiety or upset as a result, I failed to demonstrate compassion and care. I may have felt like I was providing opportunities for growth and learning, but if that resulted in disengagement or unease, then I failed to provide opportunities for growth and learning. I have been reminded that it really doesn't matter what I feel like I'm doing, what matters is others' perception and understanding of what I'm doing... I know "failed" is a strong word. But I see it as an absolutely necessary realization, an opportunity to reflect, to re-evaluate and to grow.

By identifying myself as the "common denominator", I am gradually moving towards a better understanding of what I need to do to move forward, and to support the continued growth and learning of staff and students in my school community. By identifying myself as the common denominator, I have been reminded that it starts with me.