Impossible is Nothing

"Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live the world they've been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It's an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It's a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing." 

- Muhammad Ali

Do The Unthinkable

It always seems impossible until its done. 

Nelson Mandela 

How often have you encountered the million reasons why you shouldn't embark on an endeavor/adventure?  This happens to us all in both our personal and professional lives.  People line up to tell you the reasons why you shouldn't do something.  The next time this occurs take a look at the doubters to see how they are approaching their work and their life.  

• Are they attempting to do the impossible?
• Are they moving in the same direction as you?
• Are they happy just going day to day?  

Nothing great has ever occurred without risk.  Most people settle because it is easier and safer.  Greatness is always one step away even if we can't initially see it.  It often takes faith to make that first step.  The first step always leads to something greater in the long run.  

We spend far too much time worrying about what other people think and not exploring our passion and unleashing our potential.  The world is counting on people willing to take risks, explore new territory and do the impossible.

A new year is rapidly approaching for leaders everywhere.  It is time to rid yourself of the noise that doubters bring.  It is time to do the unthinkable.  It is time to show the true greatness that is within.  

What are you  waiting for?  The only thing you don't have is time?  Today is the day. How will you embark on this journey towards everything you ever wanted?  B

I'm Possible - Critical Transformations

I am heading to ASCD's Annual Conference in less than a week. The theme for this year's conference is "Critical Transformations". We can all look back at our life and identify the critical transformations that brought us to the point we are at today. This is especially true for me since I owe everything I have to an educator who believed in me when no one else did.

Critical transformations for me have always been about overcoming adversity and doing things that others say is impossible. This has certainly carried over into my daily journey in education.  There are people that doubt the students I serve on a daily basis. Many overcome amazing obstacles and do remarkable things. That is why our theme this year is a play on words.

We took the word "Impossible" added an apostrophe and a space to make "I'm Possible". It is the first thing my students see when they enter the building each morning.

You can also view our opening video with the theme and one of my amazing students here.

My students need to know that everything that they want to do in this world is possible. It is up to us to establish an environment where critical transformations can occur by igniting their passion and offering opportunities for all kids.

There are several keys to igniting a student's passion and watching their critical transformation unfold. Here are three that we put into our daily practice and have made a world of difference.

1. Develop a culture of risk taking and forward failure by students and staff members

2. Create opportunities for students to be involved in leadership activities and groups based on interest. Interest ignites passion and increases engagement. Our students are involved in a wide array of activities including chess, recycling, drama, mentoring, and video production

3.Develop a whole child approach to support the development of children who are healthy, safe, engaged, and challenged

This approach has not only allowed us to exceed academic benchmarks but more importantly facilitate critical transformations in our kids.

Passion is the key to transformation.  What kinds of things are you doing to ignite passion and encourage critical transformations where you are?