Scoring Big

As the final buzzer sounds on another school year, educators across the globe find themselves in a familiar position: packing up classrooms, reflecting on the past year's successes, challenges, and gearing up for time to renew and refresh the soul. As a basketball player strategizes for the next game, there are key lessons we can take  from the court to navigate this transition period with ease.

The Triple Threat Stance: Assessing Conversations

In basketball, the triple threat stance gives players multiple options: pass, shoot, or dribble. Similarly, in our interactions, understanding the three kinds of recurring conversations—practical, emotional, and social—can be a game-changer. Charles Duhigg's insights in "Super Communicator" underscore the importance of matching our responses to the type of conversation initiated. Just as a player must assess their options on the court, we must evaluate the conversational landscape before making our move.

The "And One" Mindset: Embracing Feedback

Drawing inspiration from the basketball term "and one," where a player scores despite being fouled, we can adopt a resilient mindset towards feedback. Much like Andy Weir, author of "The Martian," who iteratively improved his novel based on reader feedback, what if we embraced critique as an opportunity for growth?  Whether it's refining lesson plans or honing presentation skills, each piece of feedback is a chance to elevate our game. Easier said than done, receiving feedback well is an art. But, it can help us create a masterpiece. 

Going Off Script: Embracing Authenticity

While planning for the upcoming year, it's essential to remember that the best moments often arise when we deviate from the playbook. Just as in basketball, where improvisation can lead to a game-winning play, educators should feel empowered to go off script and foster connections with students and colleagues.

Morning Pages: A Ritual for Clarity

Taking a cue from international educator Samantha Marsden, carving out time for "Morning Pages" can be a game-changer in our personal and professional lives. This practice of stream-of-consciousness writing allows us to sift through our thoughts, clarify our goals, and tap into our creative reserves. Just as athletes warm up before a game, starting our day with Morning Pages primes us for success both on and off the court.

Embracing Reviews: A Path to Growth

Like Marsden, who values both positive and negative feedback as indicators of engagement, educators should view reviews as valuable insights into their craft. Whether it's a five-star rave or a constructive critique, each review offers a glimpse into how our work resonates with others. By embracing feedback with an open mind and a growth mindset, we position ourselves for continuous improvement.

As we transition from the end of one school year to the planning stages of the next, let's approach this current period with the tenacity and strategic thinking of a basketball player on the court. By leveraging these lessons—from the triple threat stance to the "and one" mindset—we can score big in our professional development and create lasting impacts in the lives of our students. So, as you pack up your classroom and prepare for the summer ahead, remember: the game isn't over—it's just halftime.