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Leading Change
WHY | HOW | WHAT
Starting Change
When you are trying to create change whether it be small or large, the secret is to speak to the heart. When you begin thinking of creating change you usually start by sharing the data or the information, but in order for change to be effective, both thoughts and feelings need to be shifted. Change is 60% heart and 40% mind (Kotter, 2011). The first step to change is to lower complacency and create a sense of urgency. Problems need to be presented not as negatives, but through a positive light where the solution is shared without secrecy. Creating a sense of urgency builds a foundation for change (Kotter, 2013). When people believe in something and believe that it is urgent, the change will be well-received and effective. People will not participate in the change that they don't believe in, so you have to show them why it's important and make them believe. I have found my "why", my reason for wanting to change. Simon Sinek (2009) claims that "People don't buy what you do. They buy why you do it." In order to lead change, you need to know why you believe in the change and then share that "why" with others.
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As educators, we are consistently bogged down by the multiple aspects of our job which makes it harder to share our "why". So, why do we continue to do this? Why do we teach? We do it for the kids. We do it because we believe we can make a difference in the lives of children and change the future. The school year is exhausting and stressful, especially in today's time with Covid-19, but we continue to do the hard work because all we hope for is that look on a student's face of an ah-ha moment. The "why" is what keeps us going through the challenges of being an educator.
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WHY? We believe we can make a difference through a love for learning, creating Life long learners who take on challenges.
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HOW? We believe we can make a difference through a love for learning, creating Life long learners who take on challenges.
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WHAT? Leaners take ownership through reflecting and connecting E-portfolios to their authentic expiriences.
These why, how, and what statements come from my passion for teaching and bringing a love for learning to my students. Many educators forget their "why", but I hope that this can stand as a reminder that our "why" is what drives us and what creates the most difference in both our lives and that of our students.
To learn more about my "what" please explore my Innovation Plan.
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References
Kotter, J. [Dr. John Kotter]. (2011, March 23). The heart of change [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NKti9MyAAw
Kotter, J. [Dr. John Kotter]. (2013, August 15). Leading change: Establish a sense of urgency [Video file].
Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Yfrj2Y9IlI
Sinek, S. [TEDx Talks]. (2009, September 28). Start with why: How great leaders inspire action [Video file].
Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4ZoJKF_VuA&t=164s
