Work is hard when you do it alone. This is especially true in Education. Things are more bearable when you can share the load. Due to our human nature, we can sometimes feel that we’re in a situation on our own.
This is why having people in your circle that know and understand the nature of your work is so important. Sometimes, it’s the people that work in your building that support you. Other times, it’s people that you have met along the way that you may not see often.
The best thing that came from the global pandemic was increased use of technology. Social media, in most cases, has helped people connect in positive ways. Now, you don’t have to live in the same city, state, or country to connect with someone that does the same work as you do.
Sometimes we need a fresh perspective on the things that we deal with on a daily basis. This is where your network comes in. A mentor or thought partner is a phone call, text, or dm away.
You may be wondering, “How do I build a professional learning network?” There are several ways to do this. You could possibly start with someone whose work you admire in your building or district. Also, reaching out to someone whose work you have seen through social media could be beneficial. Attending conferences and professional development is another way to gain people to add to your network.
In an effort to learn and grow, gleaning from others with a different perspective is a must. Growing your professional network requires effort on your part. Most people are more than willing to share their experiences and knowledge with someone genuinely interested in learning. If you haven’t already, start reaching out to others who are doing something that you admire. You never know where your connections could lead you.
My Life In Education… 