Do What Others Say You Can’t
In today’s world, the possibilities to do whatever you dream to do are endless. No longer is it necessary to follow the traditional paths that were once seen as the only options. There are many opportunities in today’s modern world if we know how to create them. That’s right, I said, “create them,” as opposed to looking for them. All too often, people have focused on looking for opportunities rather than creating pathways for their own success.
Of course, we all know of famous individuals who have created their own opportunities such as the Wright Brothers, Walt Disney, and J.K. Rowling. However, there are so many others who are creating their own opportunities on a daily basis. Daily, I hear from my own children about various YouTubers and gamers who are creating their own opportunities and partnering with companies to reach their own vision of success. I see friends of mine developing their own businesses (from photography to becoming consultants) and successfully creating new opportunities because they dedicate the time and believe in themselves.
Recently, I came across this graphic by James Clear. It really spoke to me as in my book, Take the L.E.A.P.: Ignite a Culture of Innovation, I focus on how we can create the conditions to empower learning, develop the strengths and interests of individuals, and support learners to reach their full potential. I share stories of child entrepreneurs and other youth whose actions have led to significant change. I’m driven to support educators to see how we don’t have to wait for tomorrow in order for our kids to engage in meaningful and powerful learning experiences, we can start today.
Of course, our learners require the basics of reading, writing, and mathematics. At the same time, we can connect learners with topics that spark the motivation to learn. We can also immerse them in opportunities to explore and develop interests that lead to passions. With the capabilities of the internet and ability to connect with experts from anywhere in the world, we can bring more diverse opportunities to the classroom. By cultivating skills within our learners and supporting them to learn how to navigate their own journey, we can prepare our youth for anything. We have the most amazing opportunities before us if we choose to explore and leverage them in the classroom.
For some, college is a non-negotiable. When I grew up, college wasn’t an option. The question was, what do you want to be and where do you want to go to college? That was all I knew as my mom was so incredibly proud of the fact that her mother was one of nine to attend a university and become a teacher. Education is held in high regard, as it should be. My grandma, mom and I, all attended the same university and I am so proud of that!
However, our world continues to shift and evolve. I don’t necessarily believe that every individual has to attend college to be successful. Nor do I believe that options are clearly defined–– there doesn’t need to be a divide between college or career ready. Some have held the belief that those who can’t, don’t attend college. However, I think most of us know that’s not the case. Many who seek to launch a career can do so today more readily than ever before due to the connectedness of our world and the tools we have at our fingertips. Additionally, if well-networked, there are many opportunities to develop working relationships where individuals can mentor one another.
No matter what path individuals opt for, it’s all about chasing your dreams, persevering, remaining curious, being consistent and courageous. For my own children, I want them to find happiness within anything they opt to dedicate themselves to. I don’t want them to settle for something safe (unless that’s what they desire), I want them to look back someday and know that they gave it all they had–– to see the value in persisting and persevering through adversity and taking pride in all they overcame because they didn’t give up. Wouldn’t it be amazing if every child could see the wildly amazing potential that exists within them? The potential that exists despite who says, “they can’t do it” or “that’ll take too much.” What if every child believed in their inner potential?
Also, when I read the quote by James Clear, I don’t just think of our youth. I also think of you and I. Although we may be in adulthood, we still have dreams. It’s never too late to chase after them. You may be looking to pick up a new hobby, become more fit, launch an online course, or become an entrepreneur.
Oddly enough, the one thing that motivates me like no other is when people don’t believe in me. Or, if someone tells me, “you can’t.” As in, “you can’t [write book, be a speaker, etc.] if you don’t have your administrative degree and experience as a principal. I assure you, I value education and applaud anyone who has their administrative degree or serves in an administrative role. My husband is in his ninth year as a principal so I have much respect for the work. However, I believe people want and need to hear from those who are still in the classroom or working other roles, such as instructional coaching. The bottom line is, do what people think you can’t and make your vision a reality. Don’t allow others to determine what you can and can’t do. You make the decisions regarding you, not them. I believe that those who say you can’t are the ones who just may be intimidated by your inner potential.
Don’t convince yourself it’s too hard, takes too long, or that you’re not good enough. That’s not what we are here for. We are here to be the best version of ourselves. YOU are exactly what YOU need. At the same time, YOU are exactly what your learners need to help create the conditions to empower learning.
