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REAL + Innovators’ Compass, inspired by Ela Ben Ur, is an outstanding culture-building activity for teams of adults and/or students, but I wanted to break it down into smaller chunks and consider ONLY one step at a time.
Today, we will discuss Quadrant 2–How do you know you just rocked the day? Professionally and/or personally?
Quadrant 2 is all about discovering what daily tasks make those we serve feel successful.
Our work can often consume us with to-do lists longer than we have hours in a week. However, if we know long walks, or reading, or helping others…” makes that person’s heart smile at the end of the day–we can be intentional with our encouragement. Maybe we remind them on a particularly tough day by writing on a sticky-note, “Hey friend, you might want to carve out time tonight for a long walk. You deserve it!” A little accountability often goes a long way. And, our specific feedback lets them know you care about their well-being as a human first.
As an administrator of instructional coaches, I used REAL + Innovators’ Compass to get to know each of them. This works great for students in the classroom, as well.
One time I learned from a staff member that one thing they needed to feel like they rocked the day was “happy students and coffee”–lots of it! On her tough days, I often made a quick coffee run. Small deed yet meaningful.
If we want to help those we serve, it’s nice to know what sets them up for a successful day. It helps us better relate to them as a person.
Give each of your staff members or students a piece of paper and ask them–What makes you feel like you just rocked the day? Professionally and/or personally?
Set a timer, and have them write as many things as they can down in 2 minutes.
Have them share with their peers and collect the notes for you to know, as well.
-Tara
The actual implementation of REAL + Innovators’ Compass is relatively simple. I explain it in detail in my book, Be REAL Educate from the Heart as well as in the blog linked below.
The idea of the compass was inspired by Ela Ben Ur (contact info in link blog link). I adopted her method and created a series of questions, blended with the REAL acronym, to provide a tool to better relate to the people I serve. Blog post linked HERE for the entire REAL + Innovators’ Compass process.
I am an educator who values the individuality and uniqueness of others. Writing the blog R.E.A.L. is an outlet for me to pay it forward by sharing ideas, influences, lessons learned and exposing a little vulnerability while encouraging others to maximize their R.E.A.L. potential, as well.