For the last 8 months I have been focused on my learning, in an effort to help others, including myself and my colleagues, but, most importantly, the students in my school.
During this time, I have been blogging regularly as a way to make meaning and build connections with many of the things I have been reading on Twitter (and the articles, blogs, and resources I have been pointed to on Twitter). I have also been blogging as a way to reflect on my own practise – as an administrator and as an educator. I believe self-reflection can be the most outstanding professional development there is, if it is done right.
It was a little disturbing however, when someone mentioned, albeit somewhat jokingly (I hope), how I was obsessed with my blog, twitter, and learning. Hmmmmm… It got me reflecting. Could I be obsessing over my learning? My students? My colleagues? My district?
So first off, I thought it was important to review the definition of obsession:
The World English Dictionary online defines obsession as:
1. a persistent idea or impulse that continually forces its way into consciousness, often associated with anxiety and mental illness
or as
2. a persistent preoccupation, idea, or feeling
Then, something that George Couros wrote to me in response to my blog post about his visit to talk to our administrators about Social Media got me thinking some more. In part, George wrote,
You asked me that night, “Who inspires you?”; for me, meeting people like you and feeling how passionate they are about our profession and especially our kids, inspires me. How can it not?
The World English Dictionary defines passion as:
a strong affection or enthusiasm for an object, concept, etc…
Yes, I love learning, I love helping, I love education. I love leading. I love that I can make a difference in so many aspects of education. Yes, I have a great deal of enthusiasm for all that I do. It is this enthusiasm and optimism that people find contagious. It is this enthusiasm that helps move our system forward.
P A S S I O N
That is what makes me work as hard as I do. Contrary to what some others may believe, I am not obsessed. I am passionate. I am passionate toward education, toward learning, toward helping others – children, parents, and colleagues alike. I am passionate toward life.
It is my hope that people do not judge others based upon what they think makes that person tick. Why they think the person does what they do.
It is my hope that people would take time to truly get to know others and then accept them for who they are, not who they think they should be.
I am glad I have passion toward learning, growth, parenting, teaching, leading, and life.
It is this very passion which I find inspiring and which inspires others.
My final message for you today . . . Inspire and Be Inspired!
What do you think? Obsessed? or Passionate?
(Thank you George for your comment that prompted me to write this post.)
It's All About Learning 
Hi Tia,
I enjoyed reading your last post. I find your willingness to learn, share, and question…inspiring. Marc and Angel Hack wrote in a recent post, “Forget what everyone else thinks and wants for you. – One of the greatest freedoms is simply not caring what everyone else thinks of you. Sometimes you need to step outside, get some air, and remind yourself of who you are and what you want to be.” Thank your for the leadership you provide your school community, Surrey Schools, and your PLN.
Hi Antonio,
Yes, I have done a great deal of learning this past year. It has been both exciting and invigorating for me personally and professionally. One of the best parts of “21st Century Learning”, for me, is the collaboration and sharing. It is so important to have an open attitude (and mind) and a willingness to encourage, share and learn from one another. How powerful!
Thank you for your kind remarks and Thanks for reading and taking the time to respond so thoughtfully.
Tia
Hi Tia. Loved your post. I am addicted and not afraid to admit it. It all comes down to balance. I know you too are loving the PLN for all the professional learning. Now it is spring break so where is that young family of yours?
Cheers
Sheila
Hi Sheila,
Yay for Spring Break!!! My kiddos and I had a lovely day at the library, the mall, and playing go fish at home. Most of what I do here is when they are in bed or having quiet time while the littlest one naps. It is great having time to spend with them, that’s for sure.
I hope you have a lovely Spring Break!
Tia