I have been told that I “think” too much…….grins, at the time it wasn’t said to me in a complimentary way — but in actuality it is very true. I do over think quite a bit………but I also turn things over and over in my mind in such ways that I usually end with with some good outcomes. (emphasis on sometimes!) 
But something has been stuck in my brain for a few weeks now….and I decided to blog it.
A few weeks ago, while watching the AFI Warren Beatty Tribute (yes, I have been a fan since “Heaven Can Wait”) and Don Cheadle was a part of the stars which gave tribute. At one point he said that Warren was one that: “He never lets the good be the enemy of the great,” And that thought has been rolling around in my brain for 2 weeks now.
If I host the same project for 10 years in a row — do I have a good thing going or I am just in a rut? Though it is good, people are happy, and creativity if flowing — have I settled for the “same old thing”? Especially because, in so many people’s opinions — it works just fine??
And if I am content, does that mean that I lose effectiveness because I become complacent? I never ever want to be labeled as complacent, thank you very much.
How many teachers have become complacent….something works, and they says “if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it” instead of perhaps “let’s build a better mousetrap.”
I guess what I am thinking today is “HOW’S”.
1. How do I not get stuck in a rut?
2. How can I make something even better the next time?
3. How do I stretch me to try some new things?
4. How high do I want to set my bar?
5. How do I not allow myself to be complacent with “good enough”?
Smiles, I know I “think” too much……….but that is what I “thunk” today — and just wanted to share it with you.
Hmmm — and what do you think?
jen
addendum: As I woke up this morning, I heard a voice on the radio ask the caller “are you willing to settle for good, when you see a potential for great?” HHHHHHmmmmmm, and the thoughts continue. (jen)
Someone asked me if I do things the same way each year and I answered “no” Maybe because I get bored or maybe I am goal oriented and like to set new goals for myself. I am not saying I throw everything out for the sake of something bright & shiny….
but I have decided to walk the talk and try to transform my classroom into what I would have liked to be in, keeping in mind all the benchmarks etc. It should be an interesting year applying all the tech stuff I have learned. I am prepared to come up with Plan B if something doesn’t work as long as it isn’t every period.
This could be my retirement year or not
What is your personal learning network? Is it leading you to new places?
I urge you to set a challenge and see where it leads you. Good luck
Jen,
You are miles away from complacent, you can never “think” too much. And we love your projects. So many teachers are just getting on board with the projects. So even though they may be old for you, they are new to many. Keep doing what you do!
Cathy
@Cevanoff
I did think of that — that new teachers are always joining — but I do have some teachers that this will be their 10th year too….so just wondering.
Smiles, and I do think too much at times….but it keeps life from being boring!!!
Thanks for the very kind words. Means a great deal.
@readerdiane
Thank you for your post.
My personal learning network is hundreds of miles away (most of them) and that might be one of the frustrations. My present location does not offer much support.
I think I am challenging myself, and my PLN (even those who are FAR away) are just encouraging me (as you are) and support me as I journey through some choices I am making.
Big Challenge is what to do in December 2008. My apartment lease runs out in November and I have MANY possibilities to play with!!