What If or What If?
Which do you empower?
We all look toward the future and ask “What if?” But the thinking behind the question makes a huge difference in our outcomes.
If the question is asked with fear, we ask “WHAT IF…” and worry about all sorts bad and scary things that might happen if we step outside of our comfort zone.
On the other hand, if the question is asked with hope, we ask “What if….” and eagerly anticipate all sorts of amazing outcomes that could occur if we just go for it.
This is part of the human condition. No need to beat yourself up. But it’s contagious. When you ask the hopeful “What if”, your enthusiasm will carry you through the first steps. Let’s say, you experiment with a new co-teaching method or you decide to have a courageous conversation with your colleague to improve how your collaborate. It often doesn’t go perfectly, but there is a comforting satisfaction in knowing that you stepped out there. Each positive action gives you confidence to try the next thing.
So, how about your students? Chances are they ask themselves “What if.” Do you know if they are asking the fear-based or the hope-based version? What if I can’t? What if I fail? OR What if I could really learn this? What if I could be admired for my skills? How could you find out this thinking? How could you help them overcome their dread of fearful consequences? How could you encourage them to go for positive speculation?
Last week, I was working with a group of dedicated secondary special educators in Washington County Public Schools, MD, led by my longtime friend, Transition Coordinator, Marianne Mooney.
I provided a variety of materials related to professional collaboration, family engagement, and youth empowerment.
These professionals had time and prompts to consider “What if” we tried these strategies with our colleagues, our students, and our families. I rotated among tables, listening and contributing to their discussion. Their conversations inspired me to write this article. Every “What if” brainstorming session I heard was looking at possibilities, at hopeful outcomes. This positive culture of WE CAN is rare and precious. I can’t wait to return for our strategy sessions. What can you do to spark this attitude in your school? What if you could?
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