I’ve always been kind of fascinated with the individual stories….life’s journey…that bring people to the current moment. I suppose that’s what is most appealing about podcasting, despite being quite the introvert.
So I found this post from Jessica Livingston, co-founder of the startup investment firm Y-Combinator, so interesting.
The backdrop to her unique story consists of three (as she states) distinctivce characteristics that helped contribute to the success of the investment firm:
- Social radar – empathy, listener, “read people,” she describes herself as the “mom” of the founding team.
- Agency/autonomy – didn’t take well to those who took away her autonomy
- Straight shooter – communicating with honesty and frankness
At one point she suggests we ask ourselves the question:
“What’s distinctive about you?”
Connecting this to school transformation and human-centered education, I wondered how often (if at all) our learners get to answer that question….What’s distinctive about you?
How would they respond? How would you respond?
—–
❓ Provocations:
What’s your story, and what about it is distinctive? (Consider a “lifelines” activity, or an autobiography exercise. I’ve used these with groups in the past and the response is overwhelmingly positive.)
How well do we know the stories of our learners? How would knowing them help us to create the conditions for memorable learning experiences?
How often do the adults in the system get to uncover, reflect on and share individual stories?
💎 Resource:
How to map your lifeline – video
🧠 Mindsets:
Individuality
💡 Areas:
Learning
Leadership
📣 Drop your thoughts in the comments, or in the Facebook group, and feel free to share resources. 🔥🔥🔥
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