Determination

I read an article the other morning about dieting, things that I already knew, but have stepped away from too long. Basically; Dieting is a process, not a program. We tend to look at programs, and marvel at the results, but many programs fail. Dieting is more successful as a life change, a belief change, and it is not a quick fix. It forces us to take a critical look at our eating and activity by asking questions like: “What makes dieting tricky?” “What is my greatest weakness?” “Do I work out?” Using questioning determines a nutrition plan that works. Following up and reflecting helps to stay on track. Working with others along the way can help us to stick with our goals.

Teaching is just like dieting. We are in an ever-changing process in which we need to ask ourselves questions, and reflect upon our teaching. We need to work with each other to refine our craft. We have to be willing to change and meet the needs of our students. Authors Kristine Mraz and Marjorie Martinelli say, “We believe that solid teaching is a process. Though you can use program materials, it will not work to follow a program one day after another without reflection, assessment, or responding to the unique students you teach.”

One solution will not work for everyone, because each of us is unique with habits, mind-sets, and beliefs that shape our lives. But, whether we are in the process of teaching or dieting or both, we are on a difficult journey. These processes take knowledge and interaction with our peers. The process does not happen overnight. We have to take one thing at a time, never stop moving forward, and strive to achieve our goals.