Ever feel like you are just one person in this big world and wonder about the possibility of impact that you, individually, can have in the grand scheme of things? Well, I hope after reading this post you might be inspired and realize that you, individually, have an opportunity to make a significant impact with each and every interaction. The "power of one" in all aspects of life is incredible. One interaction with one person can change your life or his/her life without either of you even knowing it. I have probably watched Rita Pierson's Ted Talk, Every Kid Needs a Champion, hundreds of times. Her talk always motivates me to do better and inspires me to go the extra mile. I can name numerous educators who I had at the elementary, secondary, or collegiate level that have had a major impact on my life; without them, I certainly wouldn't be where I am or who I am today. Pierson advocates that EVERY child needs a champion and that we (me, you, us; educators) can be the champion for a child or many children every single day! A huge challenge, but also a great opportunity! I have been reading Culturize by Jimmy Casas (I highly recommend getting yourself a copy if you don't already have one). There are many quotes throughout the book that have resonated with me, but I particularly love this one:
I have been thinking deliberately about this: "We are blessed every day with the opportunity to help change the course of someone's life," wow, that is a powerful charge! Being mindful of every interaction that we are a part of and how every, single, little thing we say or do can be a positive or negative influence on the world we live in is incredible. These interactions could impact us personally, impact our family, friends, colleagues, students, our personal and/or professional life. It is true, that ONE person can be so very powerful in this world! Seem like too big of a challenge? You could be that ONE person in your classroom, your school environment, your home, or your community. One interaction can make or break a student's day! Are you building students up and inspiring them to strive for greatness? One interaction with a colleague can impact them positively or negatively. Are you reaching out to lend an ear or assist with something they're struggling with? Often when we ask adults about their school experience they remember the ONE negative interaction they had with a teacher or peer. Often they remember the ONE time someone went out of their way to make them feel empowered or special. It's all very similar to throwing a rock into a body of water... We must be conscious of the power of one and think about the "ripples" we create; do we want our ripples to be positive or negative. Think about the impact you want to leave. I know for me, I appreciate the opportunity I have with every interaction and certainly try to capitalize on each one to create the biggest, most positive ripple possible! I hope you will choose to do the same! What can you do in one moment today to make a positive impact on someone around you? How can you make positive ripples wherever you are in life? So many could benefit from just one choice that you make! Capitalize on the "power of one" that we've all been gifted!
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AuthorAllison Freitag, Archives
February 2019
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