It's not about the nail

January 23, 2017
Today's deep thought was inspired by a conversation with a co-worker, which inspired this tweet: https://twitter.com/mrshoadley/status/823706310134943744

"Ts ask me for advice &dismiss it. I don't know all there is about teaching. I'm passionate, always learning, improving. You should try it."

No really, if you don't want advice, please don't ask. If you are just looking to vent, I can understand that. Sometimes we all just need to vent. 

But do not start a conversation about some topic, ask for opinions and then completely disregard the opinions you asked for. 

First off it's annoying to those around you. 

Secondly, it's rude.  

And third, it makes people less likely to listen to you. 

I know I am not an expert teacher. But I am always learning, always looking at how to improve. I can't help it, that's how I'm wired. And when I don't know something or have a question, I start researching on my own! And not as part of some professional development goals, or some class I'm taking. There are great resources online, just go to the all knowing Google. Look up stuff, read, learn to decipher what's legit. 

Another idea might be to listen to those you ask questions of. 

And remember, it's not about the nail.