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Last week's GlobalMindED conference theme was Dimensions of Our Democracy — a timely choice as we prepare to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of our country. The way that the theme was integrated and communicated, however, went far beyond the conference's proximity to July 4. In fact, as I was preparing to leave, I tracked down GlobalMindED and LifeBound founder Carol Carter to let her know the impact I had felt.
What I shared was that the conference had managed to be honest and upfront about the challenges of (and to) democracy, while at the same time conveying potential and actionable ideas. It created a "both/and" container that could hold problems and possibilities at the same time and display the benefit of considering them in their interwoven complexity. With realistic yet hopeful and change-focused information and conversations, the experience drove motivation to make systems better for people. I came away with a hope that was grounded in an eyes-open vision of reality.
"Both/and" is exactly the territory where academic coaching thrives. As I often say to students (so often that I put it on a sign in my office), "get real to get moving." From a realistic, comprehensive look at what's going on — strengths and challenges, wins and errors — students can build an actionable plan for forward motion. Because students often skew to the extremes ("I'm completely incapable" or "I'm doing everything right and the world is out to get me"), the coach is in a prime position to invite more nuanced thinking and a clearer vision of the starting point. Once they can envision better, students are more able to take steps toward it.
LifeBound has "both/and" handled with a variety of training opportunities to suit your needs.
Explore which course is right for you at www.lifebound.com.
To learn more about GlobabalMindED, please visit globalminded.org. The annual conference brings together national and global inclusive leaders from across the disciplines – early learning, K-12, and higher education, tech, policy, foundations/funders, policy, and more who are dedicated to creating a capable talent pipeline, networking, sharing best practices, and connecting students to role models, mentors, internships, experiences, and jobs.
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