Two mistakes are commonly made in setting goals. One is putting them very high that they can never be realized. When a not-too-bright young man was asked what he aspired to be, he replied, “A genius”. That’s an example of an unattainable goal. The other mistake is setting our sights too low. Psychologists tell us that the people who come from poor families often do this. They work hard and attain a better standard of living than their parents, but they may actually be capable of going much higher.
Teaching is a passion, and my experience as a teacher has been beautiful, emotional and fulfilling. Over the years, I’ve watched the student – teacher equation evolve: From Guru, as all-knowing to Guru as friend and equal, as someone who doesn’t always know the best. Today’s teacher and the learner are partners in the process of teaching and learning. We inspire, motivate and learn from each other; if I don’t know, I can admit it to my students. The teacher is only a facilitator; one who will help the student grow, become a self-learner. The teacher is only one of many sources. Not infrequently, there is a role reversal. With children being so tech-savy, often I am the student and they are my teachers. Has teaching changes the way I think ? Yes, most certainly. My students have shown me how to manage time. I marvel at how deftly they juggle sports, academics, dance, and theatre, for instance. I have learnt how to accept failure as I see my students taking success and failure with equan...
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