As we begin to close the chapter of 2018, I always take time to pause and reflect over the last year. Taking a moment to think back over the past year helps in so many ways. Not only does it remind us of where we’ve been, but it shows us where we’re headed.
While reflecting, I used the Innovator’s Compass to guide thinking. Using this free tool, created by Ela-Ben Ur, in this way, really helped.
- Who/what was at the center of the work over the past year?
- What happened over the year towards accomplishing goals?
- What matters the most?
- Without limiting beliefs or thinking, what are the big dreams for 2019?
- What are some things to try for 2019?
I took a piece of paper and drew 4 quadrants with a heart in the center:
I started at the center (question 1). Each subsequent question (2-5), I went from the lower left quadrant, upper left, upper right, and finished at the lower right quadrant. Each question and each quadrant helped to maintain focus while allowing for the answers to flow without restraint. This balance of yin and yang in this process really provides a comfortable space to be when tackling things that can be uncomfortable. Realizing it is safe to think big or uncover what truly matters the most is highly empowering and frees one up to really look back at things from a more heart- centered space.
Through this process, I have realized that the true longing is to create more experiences that are heart-centered and joyous for all learners, staff, and collaborators. I recognize through this process that is something that will continue to grow and expand as I continue to approach this work through a heart-centered, joyous space. Even when the work is challenging or there are difficulties- which is bound to happen- approaching these challenges and difficulties from a more heart-centered (love) space versus an anxiety ridden (fearful) space is something else that came through. There are tangible action steps that will need to be taken as a result of this process that are doable and attainable.
Another thing that came through very strongly is to write. To collaborate. To continue to learn and grow in order to be of service to others. To do my part to be better. To continue this work of instilling a love of learning for all.
Most importantly, I would like to express my gratitude to the readers and subscribers of this blog, For those that see the value in this work- thank you. For those that have shared a blog post or this website that was launched in 2018- thank you. As we move into 2019, May this be a year of surprises, growth, and learning. May there be joy in the challenges, growth in the obstacles, and love at the center of it all.
