Living Life: Lessons from Graduates, Books, and Basketball

Life is good, and lessons are everywhere. I appreciate that so many educators who podcast, blog, and create online content remind me of different ways I can keep track of my learning. Reflecting on what I have learned and sharing these takeaways helps reinforce the value of lifelong learning and the impact we can make on others.

Incorporating wisdom from a number of people I respect has benefited me greatly. For example, George Couros’ Instagram posts, where he shares what he has learned recently, are particularly impactful. Reflecting on these lessons and documenting what I learn with a dated Google Document on my phone, as Lauren Kaufman advises, has become an invaluable practice. Being able to reflect is a privilege, and it facilitates amazing growth. 

Recently, I attended a graduation party for a student about to embark on a journey with the Marines. As he prepares for boot camp, he’s able to bring very few personal items. His parents had a thoughtful idea: they provided a booklet for guests to write advice for him to carry along. The gravity of the moment made it tough to know what to say, but I realized it was a perfect opportunity to share my favorite Bible Verse from Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

This week I read Lauren Kaufman’s new book, "The Leader Inside," which has been an incredible source of inspiration. Her focus on women in leadership and the hope she expresses for education is both empowering and motivating. One of my favorite quotes from Kaufman’s book is: "A community of educators who believe in the future can make a profound difference." Her insights show what it feels like to belong to a community that hasn’t given up on making an impact.

Tonight I was able to fulfill a few items on the Amazon wish list for one of my former students. It is pretty amazing to contribute to someone’s classroom! I am so excited that she is a leader in the education community. Without a doubt, I know she is making a difference.

Another profound insight comes from Meghan Lawson's quote in Kaufman's book: "We do not find ourselves, but instead, we build ourselves." This perspective has been transformative for me, emphasizing the active role we play in shaping our identities. Today, I was thinking about how I need to reread Allyson Apsey's "Path  To Serendipity " which reinforces this perspective , highlighting how things happen in their own right time and how serendipity often guides us to where we need to be.

The theme of impact resonates deeply with me, especially when I think about my son. He recently decided to re-read David Goggins' "Can't Hurt Me" to reignite his motivation as an athlete as he conditions for fall sports. It's inspiring to see him recognize the resources that empower him and actively seek them out. It’s a powerful reminder that knowing where to turn for inspiration is a crucial step in achieving our goals.

Sean Gaillard’s podcast, "The Principal Liner Notes," ends with a beautiful message: "Don’t forget to share with the world your dreams, ideas, and insights because the world needs them, and you help make the world a better place for others." I've heard this many times over the years, but recently, it struck a different chord. Sometimes, you can hear something repeatedly, and then one day, it resonates on a deeper level, making you truly "hear" it for the first time. It’s a powerful reminder of the continuous journey of personal growth and understanding.

I have been thinking about the game of basketball a lot lately. There are so many parallels to life. In the game, we strive to leave it all on the court, playing with passion and purpose. The same goes for life. Whether it’s offering advice to a graduate, finding motivation in a book, or being inspired by a podcast, every action we take can leave a lasting impact. Like in basketball, where each play contributes to the final score, our daily efforts and interactions contribute to the legacy we leave behind.