This wasn't as easy as I thought it would be. I had the first word earlier this week, but when the challenge was issued for three I hesitated. The second one came easier, the last one took longer. Here are my three words for 2016 and why I chose each of them. I went with words that encompass not only the professional side, but the personal side as well.
Forward: The saying goes that the rear-view mirror is smaller than the windshield for a reason. We should be looking ahead more than we are looking back. While as educators it's important to look back to know what to build upon, we shouldn't stay so focused on previous years that we forget to enjoy and experience the moment we are in right now, the present. This year I want to stay focused on what's ahead. This is a new year for creating new memories and leaving an impact on others. Leave the box of "we've always done it this way" in 2015. Don't dwell on what you didn't finish in 2015, but look ahead to what you can do in 2016.
Focused: This word goes with the first one in a way. I'm the world's worst at having multiple projects going at one time. I wish I could tell you I have finished them all over the break, but I haven't...in fact I even started a few new ones. While multi-tasking is good at times(especially as educators), a browser can only have so many tabs/windows open at a time before it starts to freeze. I think that's true for us as well, we can be doing so many things at once that at some point we can get overwhelm and may freeze. I want to be focused in 2016. I want to be in the moment (and disconnect at times from that device that never seems to leave my hands). I want to finish these unfinished projects and start some new ones that have been on my list for way too long. Staying focused on the goal(s) this year and not letting the distractions get in the way.
Faithful: This one was harder to choose. I thought about the word fervent (which also means passionate) because I want to pour into the things that I am passionate about this year(Writing etc.). I also thought about free because I want to be just be the me that I was made to be this year. For so long I have listened to what others said and discounted what I had to offer because of my title or position. Thankful for a PLN this past year that told me I had a voice and I had something to share with others. Finally I settled on Faithful. As a Christian, I want to be found faithful in all of the things He's given me to do. Faithful to give each and every day all that I can give. Faithful to be that ear when the parents may need someone to listen to. Faithful to remind my students each and every day that they matter and they can make a difference. Faithful to share what I am learning or pondering with others and to grow with a network of educators that help make me a better me.
