In these concluding chapters George and his team impress with their presentation, George gets his car back from the repair shop, and he gifts a new "10 Rules" sign to Joy so that future passengers can see the rules better.
As stated in prior posts, I believe that I am a better person for having read this book and taking its message to heart. I think that applying these rules to how we deal with our students, their families, and each other can help make SHS a better place to learn, to teach, and to achieve. I thank you all for reading the book. Thanks to those of you have also taken the time to read these blog posts. And big thank-you to those of you who have been brave enough to share your thoughts by posting comments for the rest of the staff to read.
Steve
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Chapter 31
Rule #10:
Have Fun and Enjoy the Ride
Through the character Eddy, we learn this motto: The goal in life is to live young, have fun, and arrive at your final destination as late as possible, with a smile on your face.
A friend of mine uses the phrase "It's simple, but not easy." I think much of the message of this book, and especially Eddy's motto, matches that saying. What a simple concept it is to be happy, grateful, and full of joy. But it can be oh-so-difficult at times to live that way. I will say that I personally have made a shift in my view on life's inconveniences. But often times it is after I have already had a minor blow-up or melt down that I remember "that shouldn't bother me so much". For me the true victory will come when the blow-ups and meltdowns disappear, and a calmer and wiser persona rules my actions.
Are any of you finding that you, too, are viewing life a little differently as you have read this book?
Have Fun and Enjoy the Ride
Through the character Eddy, we learn this motto: The goal in life is to live young, have fun, and arrive at your final destination as late as possible, with a smile on your face.
A friend of mine uses the phrase "It's simple, but not easy." I think much of the message of this book, and especially Eddy's motto, matches that saying. What a simple concept it is to be happy, grateful, and full of joy. But it can be oh-so-difficult at times to live that way. I will say that I personally have made a shift in my view on life's inconveniences. But often times it is after I have already had a minor blow-up or melt down that I remember "that shouldn't bother me so much". For me the true victory will come when the blow-ups and meltdowns disappear, and a calmer and wiser persona rules my actions.
Are any of you finding that you, too, are viewing life a little differently as you have read this book?
Chapter 29-30
Rule #9:
Drive with Purpose
For George, this was a message that he shouldn't be content to just be energized at work when he is working on a big project. It's at these times when we are naturally "dialed in" in at work, but driving with a purpose keeps the energy level high even during more mundane times at work.
During my time at SMS, I felt my purpose the most when we were prepping students for the ACT EXPLORE test. It was great to watch staff buy into the process and to the value of this test to our students. It was validating to start to watch the students look at their scores and use them as a benchmark for where they would hope their ACT scores would be. As we get closer to the spring this year, I am anxious to have our whole building (minus the Seniors) working on an age-appropriate ACT style test. I am excited to help present scores to students and to staff, to show individual and building level growth. Call me a geek, but these are the types of things that drive me.
For me, it is tougher to keep my purpose in mind when dealing with some of the less appealing aspects of the job. Don't get me wrong, I love my job and I am blessed to have it. But any principal who tells you they get energized for locker searches and disciplinary hearings probably needs to find a job as a prison warden. What I try to do is see how these parts of my job contribute to the bigger picture of student achievement. Obviously, a more structured and safe school environment creates a better learning environment. Working on student discipline, by extension, is work that fosters academic achievement. But it can be difficult to keep this in mind at times!
I've rambled a bit here, so I'll turn it over to you: what "purpose" do you feel at school? When do you feel it most, and when do you struggle to be focused on your purpose?
Drive with Purpose
For George, this was a message that he shouldn't be content to just be energized at work when he is working on a big project. It's at these times when we are naturally "dialed in" in at work, but driving with a purpose keeps the energy level high even during more mundane times at work.
During my time at SMS, I felt my purpose the most when we were prepping students for the ACT EXPLORE test. It was great to watch staff buy into the process and to the value of this test to our students. It was validating to start to watch the students look at their scores and use them as a benchmark for where they would hope their ACT scores would be. As we get closer to the spring this year, I am anxious to have our whole building (minus the Seniors) working on an age-appropriate ACT style test. I am excited to help present scores to students and to staff, to show individual and building level growth. Call me a geek, but these are the types of things that drive me.
For me, it is tougher to keep my purpose in mind when dealing with some of the less appealing aspects of the job. Don't get me wrong, I love my job and I am blessed to have it. But any principal who tells you they get energized for locker searches and disciplinary hearings probably needs to find a job as a prison warden. What I try to do is see how these parts of my job contribute to the bigger picture of student achievement. Obviously, a more structured and safe school environment creates a better learning environment. Working on student discipline, by extension, is work that fosters academic achievement. But it can be difficult to keep this in mind at times!
I've rambled a bit here, so I'll turn it over to you: what "purpose" do you feel at school? When do you feel it most, and when do you struggle to be focused on your purpose?
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Chapter 28
Michael got a second chance from George.
I used to not believe very strongly in second chances. If someone messed up once badly enough, it made it difficult for me to trust them in the future. Experience in education has certainly changed my perspective (not to mention all the second chances others have given me over the years).
What's the best second chance you ever got from somebody?
I used to not believe very strongly in second chances. If someone messed up once badly enough, it made it difficult for me to trust them in the future. Experience in education has certainly changed my perspective (not to mention all the second chances others have given me over the years).
What's the best second chance you ever got from somebody?
Chapter 26-27
George learns Rule #8:
Love Your Passengers
Throughout the book, and this blog, we've read and discussed that enthusiasm and positive energy is important for relationships and, ultimately, success. But more important than a great, positive outlook is the simple concept of loving your passengers. This is what keeps them on the bus for the long haul.
Jack gave George a list of Five Ways to Love Your Passengers, which George read before heading into the office.
1. Make time for them.
2. Listen to them.
3. Recognize them.
4. Serve them.
5. Bring out the best in them.
Which of these do you feel you do the best with? Which of these is toughest for you? When pondering these questions, you can consider your students and/or your coworkers.
Love Your Passengers
Throughout the book, and this blog, we've read and discussed that enthusiasm and positive energy is important for relationships and, ultimately, success. But more important than a great, positive outlook is the simple concept of loving your passengers. This is what keeps them on the bus for the long haul.
Jack gave George a list of Five Ways to Love Your Passengers, which George read before heading into the office.
1. Make time for them.
2. Listen to them.
3. Recognize them.
4. Serve them.
5. Bring out the best in them.
Which of these do you feel you do the best with? Which of these is toughest for you? When pondering these questions, you can consider your students and/or your coworkers.
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Chapter 24-25
These chapters introduce a couple of key concepts. Chapter 24 speaks of "leading with heart". And Chapter 25 contains Rule #7:
Enthusiasm Attracts More Passengers and Energizes them During the Ride
Also interesting in chapter 25 is the story Jack tells about becoming the CEO (Chief Energy Officer). Once he learned to lead with his heart, to encourage his staff, and to be positive his career was revived and his company went to new heights.
I attempt to "lead with heart", though it is admittedly not always easy. I am quite introverted by nature. But I notice the difference when I have a personal connection with a student, parent, or staff member compared with the ones I don't. I also try to be enthusiastic, both to motivate those around me and motivate myself. As some of you will probably attest, I do better at this some days than others.
Think about your classrooms. Are you leading with heart? Are you enthusiastic about your subject matter? Do students have a purpose when they enter your classroom, or do they simply arrive every day because their schedule directs them to do so? If you are brave, maybe you want to share your thoughts here. If not, that is fine, but I want all those who read this to consider these questions internally.
Enthusiasm Attracts More Passengers and Energizes them During the Ride
Also interesting in chapter 25 is the story Jack tells about becoming the CEO (Chief Energy Officer). Once he learned to lead with his heart, to encourage his staff, and to be positive his career was revived and his company went to new heights.
I attempt to "lead with heart", though it is admittedly not always easy. I am quite introverted by nature. But I notice the difference when I have a personal connection with a student, parent, or staff member compared with the ones I don't. I also try to be enthusiastic, both to motivate those around me and motivate myself. As some of you will probably attest, I do better at this some days than others.
Think about your classrooms. Are you leading with heart? Are you enthusiastic about your subject matter? Do students have a purpose when they enter your classroom, or do they simply arrive every day because their schedule directs them to do so? If you are brave, maybe you want to share your thoughts here. If not, that is fine, but I want all those who read this to consider these questions internally.
Chapter 23
George hears the chanting and cheering on Joy's bus as he walks to the bus stop, and is naturally curious. When Joy explains the rationale (letting positive energy overtake the negative) George is somewhat skeptical. He thinks the practice of chanting and cheering makes sense, but it is "corny". Joy agrees, but poses a question to George: Would you rather be corny and happy, or cool and unhappy (paraphrasing)?
I went a long time trying to be the coolest kid in school. Occaisonally I will see a student exhibiting similar behavior, and it pains me...not just for the ramifications for the student in front of me, but also because I remember some traits and behaviors from my youth of which I'm not proud. The Energy Bus would have been great material for me to read between the ages of 16-25...but I would have been too cool to read it. I would definitely have seen this book as corny and I waste of my time, either as a student or a young teacher.
As I have matured I have learned the benefit of letting my guard down a little and not focusing on the cool factor as much. And I have to say that I am a happier person now than I have ever been. I've learned that it is indeed OK to be happy, even when much of life is giving me reasons to be unhappy. I've allowed myself to read a book like this and realize that, though some will scoff, I will benefit from focusing on its message.
What about you? Do any of you feel like you've had to make a similar transition as you've matured?
I went a long time trying to be the coolest kid in school. Occaisonally I will see a student exhibiting similar behavior, and it pains me...not just for the ramifications for the student in front of me, but also because I remember some traits and behaviors from my youth of which I'm not proud. The Energy Bus would have been great material for me to read between the ages of 16-25...but I would have been too cool to read it. I would definitely have seen this book as corny and I waste of my time, either as a student or a young teacher.
As I have matured I have learned the benefit of letting my guard down a little and not focusing on the cool factor as much. And I have to say that I am a happier person now than I have ever been. I've learned that it is indeed OK to be happy, even when much of life is giving me reasons to be unhappy. I've allowed myself to read a book like this and realize that, though some will scoff, I will benefit from focusing on its message.
What about you? Do any of you feel like you've had to make a similar transition as you've matured?
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Chapter 21-22
"The goal is not to be better than everyone else but rather to be better than you were yesterday."
What do you hope to be better at tomorrow?
What do you hope to be better at tomorrow?
Chapter 20
Confrontation. Some people thrive on it. I think people that do are mostly Energy Vampires. Thriving on conflict means that an individual is fueling him/herself with the very negativity that we hope to eradicate.
Confrontion. Some people avoid it at all costs. This can be a destructive as the individuals who thrive upon it. If you avoid all confrontation, people walk all over you. Rules and regulations get ignored. And avoiding confrontation means that you are never making the big, tough, decisions--decisions that often define you. Those who avoid confrontation completely remind me of the old atomic bomb drills my parents told me about. They put their heads down and hope the destruction and fallout doesn't hit them.
George is turning the corner as he faces down his Energy Vampires, firing two in the process. This is not fun. My job has forced me to confront some tough issues, and whether my decisions were right or wrong, they were difficult and they extracted an emotional toll on me.
If you feel comfortable, share your thoughts on this question: where do you lie on the spectrum of confrontation. From thriving upon it to avoiding it, where are you at, and how would like to improve as an individual?
Confrontion. Some people avoid it at all costs. This can be a destructive as the individuals who thrive upon it. If you avoid all confrontation, people walk all over you. Rules and regulations get ignored. And avoiding confrontation means that you are never making the big, tough, decisions--decisions that often define you. Those who avoid confrontation completely remind me of the old atomic bomb drills my parents told me about. They put their heads down and hope the destruction and fallout doesn't hit them.
George is turning the corner as he faces down his Energy Vampires, firing two in the process. This is not fun. My job has forced me to confront some tough issues, and whether my decisions were right or wrong, they were difficult and they extracted an emotional toll on me.
If you feel comfortable, share your thoughts on this question: where do you lie on the spectrum of confrontation. From thriving upon it to avoiding it, where are you at, and how would like to improve as an individual?
Friday, October 25, 2013
Chapter 19
By way of the ultimate rule of positive energy, we get some insight to the conundrum of dealing with negative people that aren't going to get rid of. For me, if you take nothing else from this book, take this rule to heart:
Your positive energy and vision must be greater than anyone's and everyone's negativity. Your certainty must be greater than everyone's doubt.
Joy herself says this rule is so important that it is separate from the Ten Rules. Do your best to heed this mantra as you deal with life's energy vampires.
Your positive energy and vision must be greater than anyone's and everyone's negativity. Your certainty must be greater than everyone's doubt.
Joy herself says this rule is so important that it is separate from the Ten Rules. Do your best to heed this mantra as you deal with life's energy vampires.
Chapter 18
Rule #6:
Post a Sign That Says NO ENERGY VAMPIRES ALLOWED on Your Bus
In my job, I've had to deal with energy vampires. So have you. At times, I may have been a vampire to you; at other times, you may have been one to someone else.
The answer is not to fire all who are negative. Often, we in education have so much to feel negative about that it is all to easy to fall into a rut of negativity. And most times in our lives, we couldn't fire somebody even if we wanted to--like they angry and irrational parent, or the pompous and disconnected legislator.
So what is the answer? How do we appropriately deal with people who are sucking the positive energy from us? Maybe we need to read some more...
Post a Sign That Says NO ENERGY VAMPIRES ALLOWED on Your Bus
In my job, I've had to deal with energy vampires. So have you. At times, I may have been a vampire to you; at other times, you may have been one to someone else.
The answer is not to fire all who are negative. Often, we in education have so much to feel negative about that it is all to easy to fall into a rut of negativity. And most times in our lives, we couldn't fire somebody even if we wanted to--like they angry and irrational parent, or the pompous and disconnected legislator.
So what is the answer? How do we appropriately deal with people who are sucking the positive energy from us? Maybe we need to read some more...
Chapter 17
Joy teaches George that "negativity kills productivity". Which leads Danny to showing George rule #5:
Don't Waste Your Energy on Those Who Won't Get on Your Bus
I don't think this means you give up on people, though. As Mark L stated in a comment to a previous post, to give up goes against the parent/teacher instinct we all have as educators. If we believe it's OK to give up on a student, we are in the wrong profession!
Just as we wouldn't give up on students, I don't think you give up on adults, either, even if they are negative. To me, rule #5 means you don't let other people's negativity "kill your productivity".
What does rule #5 mean to you?
Don't Waste Your Energy on Those Who Won't Get on Your Bus
I don't think this means you give up on people, though. As Mark L stated in a comment to a previous post, to give up goes against the parent/teacher instinct we all have as educators. If we believe it's OK to give up on a student, we are in the wrong profession!
Just as we wouldn't give up on students, I don't think you give up on adults, either, even if they are negative. To me, rule #5 means you don't let other people's negativity "kill your productivity".
What does rule #5 mean to you?
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Chapter 14-16
Rule #4: Invite people on your bus and share your vision for the road ahead.
I've shared my vision back in my Chapter 6-7 post. Obviously, the part about "career" is what mirrors the vision I wish to share with you, as my staff: I want to develop positive, trusting, relationships with all staff and students. I also feel the staff needs to develop these with their students, and with one another. When we have these relationships in place, we can focus on more specific areas of student achievement. But before we can take on such a school improvement challenge, we need to have an expectation that we are all respected, that all opinions are valid, and that we are supportive of each other even in times of differing opinions.
If you'd like to hop on my bus, with this vision in mind, sign the ticket that you will find in your mailbox, and place it in mine. If you're not on the bus...what do I need to do to get you on?
I've shared my vision back in my Chapter 6-7 post. Obviously, the part about "career" is what mirrors the vision I wish to share with you, as my staff: I want to develop positive, trusting, relationships with all staff and students. I also feel the staff needs to develop these with their students, and with one another. When we have these relationships in place, we can focus on more specific areas of student achievement. But before we can take on such a school improvement challenge, we need to have an expectation that we are all respected, that all opinions are valid, and that we are supportive of each other even in times of differing opinions.
If you'd like to hop on my bus, with this vision in mind, sign the ticket that you will find in your mailbox, and place it in mine. If you're not on the bus...what do I need to do to get you on?
Chapter 13
One Great Golf Shot...well, even I had one of those, and I could easily challenge for the World's Worst Golfer title. I was participating in a charity golf scramble several years ago, and on a Par 3 my shot landed about 2 feet from the pin. I will never repeat that--partially because I never golf anymore--but whenever I do think about golf, I remember that One Great Shot.
Why do you think even the worst of golfers remember their best moments, but in other areas of our lives we focus on the negative over the positive?
Why do you think even the worst of golfers remember their best moments, but in other areas of our lives we focus on the negative over the positive?
Chapter 12
George takes the Thank-You Walk...sounds a little hokey, even I'll admit. However, the basis of this book is rooted in science. Being happy, grateful, etc., releases positive endorphins to the brain, making a person actually happier. And it is not possible to be both grateful and stressed out. So, the Thank-You Walk is "research-validated"?
I'm going to take a Thank-You Walk later today. When I get a chance, I will share how it goes. I challenge all who read this to take a 5-minute Thank-You Walk this week. It could be in the halls, before school, during lunch, during conference period, after school, etc. Or, you could do it outside of school (if you have the time). Taking the Thank-You Walk is the important thing...sharing your experience would be the cherry on the sundae, so please consider!
I'm going to take a Thank-You Walk later today. When I get a chance, I will share how it goes. I challenge all who read this to take a 5-minute Thank-You Walk this week. It could be in the halls, before school, during lunch, during conference period, after school, etc. Or, you could do it outside of school (if you have the time). Taking the Thank-You Walk is the important thing...sharing your experience would be the cherry on the sundae, so please consider!
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Chapters 10-11
We are introduced to two more rules for the "ride of our lives".
- #2- Desire, vision, and focus move your bus in the right direction.
- With this rule, Joy reminds us to think about what we want, rather than complain about what we don't want. Focus on the POSITIVE outcome you are seeking!
- #3-Fuel your ride with positive energy.
- Within this rule, we hear the parable about "feeding the positive dog".
Take a moment to explain what either of these rules mean to you.
Chapter 9
We learn that George's career hinges on his ability to launch the marketing campaign for a new lightbulb, the NRG-2000. Use the NRG-2000 as a metaphor. What is your biggest challenge right now?
My personal NRG-2000 is leading our new Sandusky Jr./Sr. High School. I hope that I am on more solid ground, career-wise, than George seems to be. But I know the reality of my job is simple: if I don't produce, I will be replaced. I try not to dwell on this fact, but I'd be lying if I said I feel no stress about my long-term career prospects.
If you're comfortable, please share your own personal NRG-2000.
My personal NRG-2000 is leading our new Sandusky Jr./Sr. High School. I hope that I am on more solid ground, career-wise, than George seems to be. But I know the reality of my job is simple: if I don't produce, I will be replaced. I try not to dwell on this fact, but I'd be lying if I said I feel no stress about my long-term career prospects.
If you're comfortable, please share your own personal NRG-2000.
Chapter 8
Chapter 8 is a brief chapter, talking about "energy". I challenge you to ponder two thoughts:
- What is the "energy", or feeling, of SHS?
- What are you contributing to our collective energy?
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Chapter 6-7
George is excited to see Joy back driving the bus, and somewhat to his surprise, he agrees to learn the 10 Rules for the Ride of Your Life while he waits for his car to be fixed. We meet some of the other passengers on the bus: Danny, the keeper of the rules, and Marty, the bus's research guy. And we learn Rule #1--You're the driver of your bus. If you're not the driver, you'll be pulled in the direction of whomever you are letting drive. It is OK to be a passenger on someone else's bus, but you need to have your own direction, too (now that's deep!).
Joy hands George a piece of paper that asks him to answer the following:
George is asked to answer these questions before his next bus ride. Those these questions are somewhat personal, I invite you to share your answers, too. I'll start--check the comments section for my responses.
Joy hands George a piece of paper that asks him to answer the following:
- My vision for my life (including health):
- My vision for work, career, and job:
- My vision for my relationship and family:
George is asked to answer these questions before his next bus ride. Those these questions are somewhat personal, I invite you to share your answers, too. I'll start--check the comments section for my responses.
Chapter 5
George is disappointed to see that Joy is not driving his bus on this particular morning. What has changed already in George that he is now upset not to see Joy, when earlier he found her to be off-putting?
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Chapter 4
George is perhaps at his lowest moment in Chapter 4, as his career and his marriage appear to be on thin ice. He is especially despondent as he reflects on his boss's comments that he could no longer "carry him" as George struggled at work. George had always considered his boss to be his biggest supporter.
Though the tone of the chapter is depressed, we can look inside for positives: who do you consider to be your biggest supporter(s) at work? Though I have to say that I am blessed to work with many great people, I must say that working with Cindy in the office these first few weeks has been extraordinary! Cindy handles the pressures and demands of her job with dignity, grace, and professionalism, but she also goes the extra mile to do many little things to make my job easier and my day brighter. Please consider mentioning those who support you at SHS by commenting on this post.
Though the tone of the chapter is depressed, we can look inside for positives: who do you consider to be your biggest supporter(s) at work? Though I have to say that I am blessed to work with many great people, I must say that working with Cindy in the office these first few weeks has been extraordinary! Cindy handles the pressures and demands of her job with dignity, grace, and professionalism, but she also goes the extra mile to do many little things to make my job easier and my day brighter. Please consider mentioning those who support you at SHS by commenting on this post.
Monday, September 30, 2013
Chapter 3
In Chapter 3, we learn that one of George's favorite things to do is read to his children before bedtime. Even with all of the negative things he is dealing with, this activity appears to be the bright spot in his days.
For me, the ride home from school every afternoon with my oldest son is one such moment. No matter what has transpired, good or bad, during my work day, this drive gives me 10-12 minutes to focus on him. He gets undivided attention, which is normally tough with his 5 year old brother and 2 year old sister. I get to put my issues aside for awhile and be an active listener to the things he experienced that day.
What simple pleasures do you have in your life that you look forward to, no matter how bad your day has been?
For me, the ride home from school every afternoon with my oldest son is one such moment. No matter what has transpired, good or bad, during my work day, this drive gives me 10-12 minutes to focus on him. He gets undivided attention, which is normally tough with his 5 year old brother and 2 year old sister. I get to put my issues aside for awhile and be an active listener to the things he experienced that day.
What simple pleasures do you have in your life that you look forward to, no matter how bad your day has been?
Chapter 2
George fails to see the "gift" he was given by getting his flat tire. Many people believe that "things happen for a reason". What are some examples from your personal experiences that fit this saying?
Chapter 1
George's experience with the flat tire reminded me of our first few days of school this year when the old copy machines stopped working, and our new copy machines had not arrived. Much like a flat tire, our copier situation was a major inconvenience, yet we were powerless to fix the problem ourselves. What other issues come up at school that are similar to this?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)