Not everyone learns at the same pace. This should not surprise anyone. And the best way to learn is by making mistakes. Lord knows, I have made more than my fair share, but that’s not to say I don’t have a great deal yet to learn. Group projects can be a blessing and a curse at the same time. The blessing comes when you leverage each member’s strength and more often than not, their strength differs from yours. The recipe for success is when everyone pours different talents into the bowl, and, when mixed together, they blend. But when a member’s weakness has direct impact on the success of the entire group, it becomes a curse. As Team Leader, my personal struggle is allowing others to make mistakes. It’s tough stepping back and allowing others to make things happen. I would do everything if I could. I would take the reins, take control and just go. Being the only one with previous related experience, I must allow others the opportunity to learn; to be responsible and accountable. I must allow them to make mistakes and give them the opportunity to learn. This is tough. It’s like watching my daughter learn how to print. How easy it would be to do it for her, to guide her hand or have her trace letters. But, in order for her to really learn, she must do it all by herself. I have to step back, observe, encourage, motivate, reassure and praise. So, while the rest are learning to take the reins, I am learning to loosen my grip.
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So age is definitely just a number. I say this with confidence and I’ll tell you why. One of my classmates, whom I now consider a good friend, is darn near half my age. But, only numerically speaking. Her mind, her attitude, her entire personality reflects that of a much older and wiser soul. She is mature beyond her years. She is smart and funny and humble. She’s modest and innocent. And I think she’s beautiful. I have always appreciated a person who will call a spade a spade. But those whom understand when, where, why and most of all how to call out that spade, are usually well…older. She is an exceptional human being. So much so that I don’t even think my attempted explanation of her has done any justice. Her confidence and bravery to stay true to herself and follow her heart, no matter what others think, no matter what diversity she faces, has inspired me in more ways than I can explain. I look at her and see everything I hope my own daughter will be. A smart woman strong, brave, confident, who follows her heart, no matter what and is kind, thoughtful, funny, and compassionate. How proud her mother must be, and should be. How proud I would be… And I realize even more how important it is for me to be a role model of all these things I wish for my daughter. So, I must always remember to be the women I hope she will become. Those are some pretty big shoes. |
Shauna QuinnNo stranger to taking the road less travelled, I must admit those not so great choices made me who I am and led me to where I am right now, which happens to be exactly where I am supposed to be. Archives
July 2018
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