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I am continuing the breakdown of the REAL + Innovators’ Compass, inspired by Ela Ben Ur, an outstanding culture-building tool/activity for teams of adults and students.
Today, we will discuss Quadrant 3–What are your BIG dreams? Professionally (or academically) and/or personally?
Quadrant 3 is all about discovering the dreams and ambitions of those we serve.
Often our day-to-day life consumes our mind and restricts it from thinking beyond the here and now. It’s a great practice to dream big and look beyond what is current. Just the act of thinking of a dream creates a sense of purpose inside one’s mind and heart.Want to lift the spirit of those around you? Talk about dreams!It’s not a waste of time. There is so much to learn from the dreams of those we serve. I remember one of my first big dreams was to be a first generation graduate. Not only did that happen, but I went on to graduate multiple degrees. Once you accomplish one, it propels you to keep striving for more.When we know the ambitions of those around us, we can encourage them to chase those dreams! Maybe we have a contact they need to move forward. Or, possibly, we can incorporate their interests and goals into our work. Sometimes just writing out and sharing your dreams with others gives you the spark (and accountability) you need to take a step toward achieving them.
One time, I learned from a staff member that she wanted to adopt a baby. Within her table group was a lady who shared her church contact information and the adoption process she went through to get her daughter.
It’s wild how sharing our dreams and ambitions can lift the room’s mood.
So, dream big! Innovators never stop dreaming, and nothing is too out of reach. Just write it down.
Give each of your staff members or students a piece of paper and ask them–What are your BIG dreams? Professionally and/or personally?
Set a timer, and have them write as many things as they can down in 2 minutes. No limits. “Big” is relative. Just write them down.
Have them share with their peers and collect the notes for you to know, as well.
-Tara
Never stop dreaming, friends!
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.