Remember that film – Field of Dreams? “If you build it, they will come.” I loved that movie when I was younger. My optimistic, idealistic self still believes it to be true. “Go the distance.” I think it can happen. I ask why not? Even after days that I feel beaten down with negative situations, negative responses, and negative people, I get up the next day, and am ready to change the world. One would think I would eventually learn my lesson, right? I do love to learn, but maybe I don’t want to learn that lesson – to believe the negative and be a pessimistic person. I’m not alone, am I? Most certainly not… it takes all kinds of people to make the world go round, and it takes surrounding ourselves with people who help make our mindsets positive to keep moving forward. We need each other to motivate and be motivated. We are a team! Lately, I’ve been thinking about a motivational speaker who I heard speak earlier this semester. With the world spinning faster than usual lately – or so it seems, I am feeling the need for some positive motivation to help build that field of dreams and to continue to go the distance.
With motiviation on our minds, I have a question to pose to you…
Will you work harder for something required or inspired?
This simple question caused me to ponder momentarily. I knew the answer without a doubt, but also knew all too often how “being required” is a way of life for many. Perhaps it is the only way for some things, which we will not debate today, but it tends to provide a veil for a lack of trust and should we dare – deceit. For example – you are required to take/pass this standardized test because you are not competent without it. Okay – maybe that is not a perfect analogy, but I have standardized testing on the brain. How about this one? You are required to complete 125 hours of continuing education because you won’t want to grow as a teacher without being required to do so. Before I continue on my soap box, let’s get back to the simple question to start. Will you work harder for something required or inspired? This phrase was shared by Rob Bell at a conference session entitled, “Teamwork Makes Dreams Work.”
This upbeat and motivational presentation made my nerdy notetaking self jot down some highlights to share with all of you as well as some of my reflections.
So what’s really important in the work place or school environment – or anywhere really?
- Appreciation.
- Feeling of being “in on” things – inclusivity breeds buy-in.
- Sympathetic help with person problems – life is not always about work.
Provide constructive yet kind feedback – SIP – Specific. Immediate. Personal. Warm fuzzies are wonderful, but they need to be paired with comments for growth. Even perfect can be better.
The way to motivate is to validate. And be authentic when validating and in all of life really. Who is better at being you than you? Consider the important characteristics identified in being authentic and real with colleagues and friends in aims to lift each other up:
– Sense of Humor -Reliable -Optimistic -Timely -Thoughtful -Honest –Happy –ABCD: above the call of duty -Empathy
Remember the power of conditioning and that actions speak louder than words. We are what we think and what we say. I’m alive. I’m awake. I feel great! We have to start with ourselves and then reach out to others. You know the phrase – “I don’t care what you say I care what you do.” It tells a story as does body language. If your words are not consistent with the language you choose, people will believe was they see. How do we grow in our language? Consider keeping a gratitude notebook and listening – silent listening…be in the moment. Refrain from the word “but” when responding. Let’s Plan a vacation. Yes but… yes but… But shuts down opportunity. Another phrase often used is “It’s against our policy.” Instead try this: “Let me tell you what I can do.”
More than not – use this simple phrase: “Thank you.” It will amazingingly change your world and mine.
In closing –
Enjoy the moment.
Change is uncomfortable. It is inevitable. Growth is optional.
What is a wow today is standard next year. Keep growing.
Plant seeds not weeds. Apple seeds…or your favorite seeds…make your world great.
It’s a lot more fun to be excellent than mediocre.
Let’s make them say wow!
Build that field of dreams! Go the distance and make us go with you!
Stay Calm & Dream On!
Profs Dr. Wendy & Dr. V.
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