What is Growth?
What does growth actually look like?
Over the past few months we have considered this for business and education. The fact is that this is very different for you, your teams and colleagues, and all those around you.
Let’s ponder what growth could be….
It could be to make more money; it could be to learn more; it could be around wellbeing and not money-orientated at all? It could be staff or student development.
Whatever growth means to you, we often read that’s it’s about finding your passion, following it and letting it drive you. The question then is: are growth and happiness aligned?
According to psychiatrist Robert Waldinger, the director of a 75-year study on adult development, there are three important lessons learned from the study as well as some practical, old-as-the-hills wisdom on how to build a fulfilling, long life.
Many organisations see numerical growth but have they been successful in what they believed at the beginning, based on their beliefs and values? Do they sacrifice their happiness for profit? This needs to be considered and thought through.
One thing we discussed on the latest podcast was the ability to know when to say yes and when to say no, and that saying either is OK and is to be respected. As is around looking after yourself and taking a break to refresh. It’s about boundaries and balance.
When thinking about taking a break and looking after yourself it would be remiss to not mention the great work by @PoweredByMatesfor mental health and the winner of their 2021 Edufuturists Award, @CatLamin . The work they do around creating networks and spaces is wonderful!
Check out our 2021 Awards to see firsthand how important it is to celebrate those making a difference in education around the world. https://youtu.be/Gw43JYSW46k
When applied to education, what does growth actually mean and are we growing and nurturing growth in our young people for what they actually need?
Has growth become chasing grades and growing the numbers instead of the learners?
There are many organisations breaking these norms in the UK and beyond.
@XPschool & @agoraroermond do a wonderful job demonstrating the art of the possible around this whilst still somewhat shackled by end point exams. They grow amazing young people by nurture and exploration.
Check out our far-reaching episode in Episode 175. https://youtu.be/LlhLAw2aUw4
If you liked this thread, check out this other one:
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