Your Mindset is Your Masterpiece

Your mindset isn't just a perspective; it's the invisible architect of your reality. It determines not what you see, but how you interpret and act upon it, ultimately shaping your experiences, your resilience, and your growth potential. Cultivate it wisely, for it holds the key to unlocking everything you aspire to be. Recently, on Unpacking the Backpack, I shared some thoughts on the topic after revisiting a blog post I wrote in 2018. Listen on Spotify or wherever you access your favorite podcasts. Below are some expanded thoughts on the topic, along with relevant research.

In my years working with educators and leaders, I’ve consistently observed a fundamental truth: our beliefs are powerful architects of our experiences. What we deeply hold to be true, whether consciously or unconsciously, significantly influences our actions, perceptions, and ultimately, the outcomes we achieve. This isn't some abstract philosophical concept; it's a tangible force that shapes everything from classroom culture to organizational success. Understanding and harnessing the power of belief is crucial for anyone striving to create positive change.

Think about the concept of self-efficacy, an individual's belief in their capacity to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments (Bandura, 1977). Research has consistently shown a strong correlation between a teacher's self-efficacy and their effectiveness in the classroom, impacting student achievement and motivation (Ross, 1998). If an educator believes they can reach even the most challenging students, their approach, persistence, and ultimately, their results are likely to reflect that conviction. Conversely, a lack of belief can create a self-fulfilling prophecy, limiting potential before it's even explored.

This principle extends beyond individual capabilities to encompass our beliefs about others and our environments. Consider the Pygmalion effect, where higher expectations lead to an increase in performance (Rosenthal & Jacobson, 1968). While the original study has faced some methodological critiques, the underlying principle remains powerful: our beliefs about the potential of those around us can significantly influence their growth and development. As leaders, our beliefs about our teams, our students, and our communities set the stage for what is possible.

The impact of belief also manifests in how we interpret challenges and setbacks. A growth mindset, as popularized by Dweck (2006), posits that individuals who believe their abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work tend to persevere through difficulties, view failures as learning opportunities, and ultimately achieve greater success. This contrasts with a fixed mindset, where abilities are seen as innate and unchangeable, often leading to avoidance of challenges and a sense of helplessness in the face of obstacles. Cultivating a belief in our capacity for growth and adaptation is essential in today's rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Our collective beliefs shape organizational culture. If a school community believes in collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement, those values will permeate the daily interactions, decision-making processes, and overall climate. Conversely, beliefs rooted in scarcity, blame, or resistance to change can stifle progress and create a toxic environment. Leaders play a critical role in shaping these collective beliefs through their communication, actions, and the stories they amplify (Schein, 2010). By intentionally fostering beliefs that align with our vision for the future, we can cultivate more resilient, effective, and thriving organizations.

Reflecting on your own practices, I encourage you to consider the underlying beliefs that drive your decisions and interactions. What do you truly believe is possible for your students, your colleagues, and yourself? Are there any limiting beliefs holding you back from reaching your full potential or fostering the growth of those around you? Take some time this week to critically examine your internal narratives and identify one belief you can actively work to shift towards a more empowering and growth-oriented perspective. The power to shape your reality truly begins within. This can result in a reformed mindset, which becomes your masterpiece.

Bandura, A. (1977). Self-efficacy: Toward a unifying theory of behavioral change. Psychological Review, 84(2), 191–215.

Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House. 

Ross, J. A. (1998). Antecedents and consequences of teacher efficacy. In J. Brophy (Ed.), Advances in research on teaching (Vol. 7, pp. 49-73). JAI Press.

Rosenthal, R., & Jacobson, L. (1968). Pygmalion in the classroom: Teacher expectation and pupils' intellectual development. Holt, Rinehart and Winston. 

Schein, E. H. (2010). Organizational culture and leadership (4th ed.). Jossey-Bass. 

Why True Success Demands Discomfort

The secret to unlocking genuine achievement lies not in avoiding challenges, but in embracing their inherent discomfort. Recently, on Unpacking the Backpack, I shared some compelling reasons, backed by research, to move beyond our comfort zones and embrace failing forward after revisiting a blog post I wrote in 2019. Listen on Spotify or wherever you access your favorite podcasts. You can also read the original blog post HERE. Below are some expanded thoughts on the topic, including additional research.

We’re often sold a vision of success as a smooth, upward trajectory – a highlight reel of achievements and accolades. But the reality for most is far bumpier, more challenging, and frankly, more uncomfortable. The truth is the path to significant, meaningful success is rarely paved with ease. It’s in navigating the discomfort – the fear, the uncertainty, the stretching of our abilities – that true growth and lasting achievement are forged.

Think about it: stepping outside your comfort zone is, by definition, uncomfortable. Yet, this is precisely where learning and growth thrive. Whether it's the knot in your stomach before a crucial presentation, the frustration of grappling with a new skill, or the vulnerability of implementing an innovative idea, these moments of unease are not roadblocks, but rather signposts indicating you’re pushing boundaries.

One of the first uncomfortable truths we often encounter is the fear of failure. This isn't just a fleeting worry; it can be a significant psychological barrier. Research by Conroy, Willow, and Metzler (2002) identified various dimensions of this fear, including fears of experiencing shame and embarrassment and devaluing one's self-esteem. The anxiety associated with potential failure can be paralyzing, tempting us to stick to the familiar and avoid challenges. However, success often lies on the other side of confronting these fears, learning from setbacks, and developing resilience. Each time we push through this fear, even in small ways, we build our capacity to handle greater challenges.

This ties directly into the concept of a growth mindset, a term Dr. Carol S. Dweck popularized. Individuals with a growth mindset believe their abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. This inherently involves embracing challenges and persisting in the face of setbacks – activities that are often uncomfortable. A seminal study by Blackwell, Trzesniewski, and Dweck (2007) demonstrated that students holding a growth mindset showed an upward trajectory in grades over two years of junior high school, precisely because they were more likely to embrace challenging coursework and persist despite difficulties. The discomfort of tackling hard problems was a catalyst for their academic success.

Another layer of discomfort arises from honestly appraising our own competence, or lack thereof. The Dunning-Kruger effect, a cognitive bias described by Kruger and Dunning (1999), highlights how individuals with low ability at a task often overestimate their ability. The uncomfortable journey here involves moving from blissful ignorance to a more accurate, and perhaps humbling, self-assessment. Recognizing our incompetence is a crucial, albeit uncomfortable, first step towards genuine skill development. Only when we acknowledge what we don’t know can we truly begin to learn and improve.

Even when success begins to materialize, discomfort can persist in the form of impostor syndrome. First identified by Clance and Imes (1978), this psychological pattern involves a persistent internalized fear of being exposed as a "fraud," despite external evidence of competence and achievement. High achievers, paradoxically, are often plagued by these feelings of inadequacy. The discomfort of feeling like an impostor, worrying that one's successes are due to luck rather than ability, can be profound. Overcoming this requires an uncomfortable level of self-reflection, acceptance of one's accomplishments, and a willingness to internalize success.

The journey to success is not about avoiding discomfort, but about learning to navigate it, grow from it, and even seek it out as a sign of progress. It’s about understanding that the butterflies in your stomach, the sweat on your palms, and the nagging voice of doubt are often indicators that you’re on the right track – the uncomfortable, but ultimately rewarding, path to achieving your potential.

Blackwell, L. S., Trzesniewski, K. H., & Dweck, C. S. (2007). Implicit theories of intelligence predict achievement across an adolescent transition: A longitudinal study and an intervention. Child Development, 78(1), 246-263.

Clance, P. R., & Imes, S. A. (1978). The imposter phenomenon in high achieving women: Dynamics and therapeutic intervention. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research & Practice, 15(3), 241–247.

Conroy, D. E., Willow, J. P., & Metzler, J. N. (2002). Multidimensional fear of failure measurement: The Performance Failure Appraisal Inventory. Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, 14(2), 76-90.

Kruger, J., & Dunning, D. (1999). Unskilled and unaware of it: How difficulties in recognizing one's own incompetence lead to inflated self-assessments. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 77(6), 1121–1134.

Evolving Towards Impact-Driven Thinking

A great deal has been written on the topic of mindset, but I wanted to take a stab at providing some additional insight.  Some of you reading this might say the topic has been beaten to death, but I hope you will hear me out.  Recently, on my podcast Unpacking the Backpack, I discussed the shift to a transformational mindset in detail after revisiting a blog post I wrote in 2022. Listen on Spotify or wherever you access your favorite podcasts. You can also read the original blog post HERE. Below are some expanded thoughts on the topic.  

In an era of disruptive change, shifting to a transformational mindset is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Educators, leaders, and learners alike must evolve their thinking to meet the challenges of an unpredictable, tech-driven world. The image “Transitioning to a Transformational Mindset” offers a compelling framework built on seven key practices: reflecting daily, developing routines, being future-focused, going beyond your comfort zone, acknowledging impediments, and embracing the sparks of innovation.

Make Time to Reflect

Transformation begins with self-awareness. Regular reflection allows educators and students to assess growth, recognize patterns, and make informed adjustments. Schön (1983) emphasized that reflective practice is crucial in professional development, fostering continuous learning and improvement. A daily habit of reflection enhances critical thinking, strengthens emotional intelligence, and aligns actions with long-term goals.

Routines Drive Success

While innovation often gets the spotlight, transformation is sustained through intentional routines. Establishing consistent practices cultivates a sense of safety and predictability, essential for deep learning. According to Marzano and Marzano (2003), clear structures and routines improve classroom management and create an environment conducive to academic success. Routines, paradoxically, provide the stability that enables risk-taking and creativity.

An Eye to the Future 

A transformational mindset demands a forward-looking vision. Educators must prepare students for jobs that don’t yet exist, technologies yet to be invented, and problems yet to emerge. This requires cultivating skills such as adaptability, critical thinking, and digital literacy. Voogt and Roblin (2012) argue that 21st-century competencies must be embedded across curricula to prepare learners for complex future challenges.

Get Uncomfortable 

Growth does not happen in the comfort zone. True transformation requires stepping into uncertainty and pushing personal and professional boundaries. Carol Dweck’s (2006) work on growth mindset highlights the importance of embracing challenges, persisting through setbacks, and viewing effort as a path to mastery. When educators model this, they empower students to do the same.

Identify Roadblocks

Transformation isn’t linear. Barriers—whether systemic, personal, or organizational—must be acknowledged and addressed. Ignoring them only reinforces the status quo. Leaders who recognize these impediments and facilitate open dialogue foster resilience and cultivate trust within learning communities (Fullan, 2007).

The Power of Small Moments

Small moments often ignite transformation—ideas, questions, or collaborations that light the way forward. Embracing these sparks means staying curious, open to inspiration, and willing to experiment. Innovation thrives when individuals are encouraged to explore and iterate, even when outcomes are uncertain.

Transitioning to a transformational mindset requires intention, courage, and consistency. Educators and learners can unlock powerful opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact by incorporating these principles into daily practice.

Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.

Fullan, M. (2007). The new meaning of educational change (4th ed.). Teachers College Press.

Marzano, R. J., & Marzano, J. S. (2003). The key to classroom management. Educational Leadership, 61(1), 6–13.

Schön, D. A. (1983). The reflective practitioner: How professionals think in action. Basic Books.

Voogt, J., & Roblin, N. P. (2012). A comparative analysis of international frameworks for 21st-century competences: Implications for national curriculum policies. Journal of Curriculum Studies, 44(3), 299–321. 

Transitioning to a Transformational Mindset

The concept of how one’s mindset plays a crucial role in growth and change is nothing new. However, there are different ways to look beyond just fixed vs. growth. I shared the following in Disruptive Thinking in Our Classrooms:

A mindset is an attitude, disposition, or mood with which a person approaches a situation. In short, it’s a belief that determines the decisions we make, actions that are undertaken, and how situations are handled. How we think and act can help us identify opportunities for improve­ment. Mindsets can also function as a roadblock to progress. Our nat­ural apprehension and fear associated with change inhibits our ability to pursue new ideas and implement them with fidelity. For sustainable change to take root and flourish, there must be a belief that our actions can significantly improve outcomes. The best ideas come from those who constantly push their thinking as well as the thinking of others.

In essence, it is a broad concept that can help algin to virtually any means to grow and improve. As disruption moves at a frenetic pace in our world today, it is vital to transform how we do things. The right mindset can make or break this journey. Here are some thoughts on transitioning to a transformational mindset.

Reflect daily 

Your mindset can change regularly, and this is a good thing. One of the most powerful tools any person has is the ability to reflect on not only what doesn’t go right but also everything that goes well in relation to professional practice. People who possess a transformational mindset don’t find the time to reflect; they make the time. Consistency is key.

Develop routines

While daily reflection can become one routine, it is also critical to incorporate others into the fold. Herein lies the “secret sauce” when it comes to changing behaviors that might have an adverse impact on progress. As a principal, I ensured email was checked first thing in the morning and before leaving for the day. I also made sure to draft my daily communication to staff and have this pushed out prior to first period. Since my calendar was originally my nemesis, I made it an asset where time was blocked off after every observation to immediately write it up so the post-conference could be held the next day. These and many other routines played a considerable role in developing a transformational mindset as more time was available to focus on the bigger picture.

Be future-focused

Dwelling on the past and constantly putting our eggs in the same basket over and over has the potential to hold us and others back. Focusing too much on the present can cloud our ability to prepare for the unknown. In a disruptive world where exponential change is and will always be the norm, we must have an eye on the future. A transformational mindset embraces a thought process about the future, anticipates potential obstacles, and assists with developing a tentative plan.

Go beyond your comfort zone

Comfort is the enemy of progress. Here are some thoughts I shared in the book:

An aspect of human nature is that when we are in a state of comfort, there is no real urgency to do something differently or better. These mental habits lead to the creation of comfort zones that we rarely step outside of. Why should we if everything is great, right? Or so our mind has us believe in a false dichotomy. The result is that we often then reside in a zone that is most comfortable, resulting in risk-averse behavior that impedes personal and professional progress. What typically morphs are fallbacks on some of the most dangerous phrases in any profession such as that’s the way we have always done it, or it’s always worked this way. 

A transformational mindset pushes each of us to be honest about where we are in order to get to where we need to be to move needed change forward.

Acknowledge impediments

While this might seem a bit obvious, a fixed mindset prevents us from openly acknowledging what might set us back from achieving bold goals. Our fear of failure in the face of challenges can stymie growth even more than being comfortable. Impediments will always be there and that’s a fact. The only way to move past or conquer them is to be honest about their existence.

Embrace the sparks

Motivation and inspiration come in many forms. No matter how they materialize, the result can be sparks that serve as needed catalysts for transformational change. While the “yeah buts” can invoke fear or a sense of comfort that inhibit growth a shift in focus on the “what ifs” can serve as the fuel transforming a spark into something extraordinary. Never discount even the smallest of wins, as these often have the most significant impact in the long run.

Don’t fixate on what you can’t control. Instead, put your energy and time into making tweaks to your thought process to unlock your potential and eventually those you serve or support.

Clean Slate

All kids have greatness hidden inside them. It is the job of an educator to help them find and unleash it. To make this goal a reality, we must change our thinking and believe in our abilities to improve learning for all kids.  It’s interesting that many of us are ready to embrace and celebrate the ideas of others openly, but we don’t necessarily believe in the ones that we either think of or develop on our own.  The best ideas in education come from practitioners in the trenches. It is these people after all who implement innovative practices and ultimately find success.  The challenge though is to begin believing in what you have to offer and not worry about what others think. 

Image credit: michaelwoodfitness.com

This is where mindset comes into play. The hallmarks of a growth mindset include embracing challenges, persisting in the face of setbacks, seeing the effort as a path to mastery, learning from criticism, and finding lessons and inspiration in the success of others.  A mindset shift is the first step, but then we have to act. Change begins with all of us.  We must change ourselves first before we can expect others to follow suit.  

Recently I have been refining my latest keynote presentation on cultivating a transformational mindset amongst both learners and educators.  The six essential elements that comprise this mindset shift include competency-based, entrepreneurial, maker, empathetic, efficacy, and storyteller. Preparing students for the new world of work require us all to embrace a bold new vision and strategy for transforming learning today.  This might seem scary to some. Others might find it daunting or even unachievable considering the obstacles that lie ahead. It is natural to feel this way, but in the end, we have to think about the needs of those we serve – our students.

For some context, I encourage you to watch this short, yet powerful video.  It is all about the decisions and changes we don’t make that after time passes we come to regret.  If we shift our initial approach to a challenge or impending decision through a different process, we can overcome the potential roadblock that our mind manifests. A transformational mindset focuses on the “what ifs” as opposed to the “yeah buts” and shuts the door on potential regrets.

Changing outcomes begins with changing your mindset. Every day is a clean slate. Do the things you will regret not doing.

Mindsets for a Bold New World #LT8Keys

There are points in our professional lives that change us for the better.  I vividly remember one such moment in 2009 when I took a device from a student as he had it out in the hallway. Since this was a violation of school policy I immediately confiscated the device, as this is what I thought I was supposed to do to ensure a school culture free from distraction and solely focused on traditional learning. I helped write the district policy blocking social media and at the school level made sure no mobile devices were seen or heard.  As the student handed me his device to avoid a one day in-school suspension for open defiance, his message to me rocked my world and not in a good way. He thanked me for creating a jail out of what should be a school.  This was the moment in time that I began to move from a fixed to a growth mindset.

Image credit: http://alsearsmd.com/

Ever since Carol Dweck’s landmark research on mindsets the world has been buzzing about how this concept applies to respective fields of study. What exactly is a mindset in simple terms?  It is an attitude, disposition, or mood with which a person approaches a situation. In short, a mindset is a belief that determines the decisions we make, actions that are undertaken, and how situations are handled. How we think and ultimately act can help us identify opportunities for improvement. Mindsets can also function as a roadblock to progress. Our natural apprehension and fear associated with change inhibits our ability to pursue new ideas and implement them with fidelity.  For sustainable change to take root and flourish there must be a belief that our actions can significantly improve outcomes. The best ideas come from those who constantly push their thinking as well as the thinking of others.

Mindsets go well beyond what a person thinks or feels. Gary Klein eloquently articulates what mindsets are and why they matter:

"Mindsets aren’t just any beliefs.  They are beliefs that orient our reactions and tendencies. They serve a number of cognitive functions. They let us frame situations: they direct our attention to the most important cues, so that we’re not overwhelmed with information. They suggest sensible goals so that we know what we should be trying to achieve.  They prime us with reasonable courses of action so that we don’t have to puzzle out what to do.  When our mindsets become habitual, they define who we are, and who we can become."

There is no one particular mindset.  They are not limited in scope and can be broken up into numerous subsets. What I believe is that the end goal of our work is to transform all facets of education to fundamentally improve teaching, learning, and leadership.  The will and desire to change must be backed with action, accountability, and reflection.  The hard, but needed, work is taking a critical lens to our work before and after embracing a mindset shift. Different, new, and claims of better, only matter if there is actual evidence of improvement.  

Our mindset is a critical component associated with the process of change. Cultivating a transformational mindset, which incorporates a dynamic mix of qualities and attributes, can help to create schools that prepare students for a bold new world. It can also help educators take that much-needed critical lens to their work to transform professional practice.  A transformational mindset consists of the following sub-mindsets and dispositions:

Empathetic

When my student shared his feelings with me it led me down a path towards being a more empathetic leader.  If we want change leading to a transformation of practice we need to put ourselves in the positions of others to better understand their feelings. It all comes down to relationships. Without trust, there is no relationship. Without relationships, no real learning occurs.  Empathy must also be better developed in our students.

Entrepreneurial

A great deal can be learned from entrepreneurial thinking leading to the rise of the edupreneur. Think about the following qualities, dispositions, and characteristics associated with this sub-mindset: initiative, risk-taking, creativity, flexibility, critical thinking, problem solving, resilience, and innovation. For our students, Quad D learning (see Rigor Relevance Framework) is geared to ensure students have the competence to think in complex ways and to apply their knowledge and skills they have acquired. Even when confronted with perplexing unknowns, students are able to use extensive knowledge and skill to create solutions and take action that further develops their skills and knowledge. All kids have greatness hidden inside them. It is the job of an educator to help them find and unleash it. 

Competency-based

Skills focus on the “what” in terms of the abilities a student needs to perform a specific task or activity. Competencies outline "how" the goals and objectives will be accomplished. They are more detailed and define the requirements for success in broader, more inclusive terms than skills do. There is also an increased level of depth that considers skills, knowledge, behaviors, dispositions, and abilities. The goal should be to develop competent learners. This applies to both students and adults. 

Maker

Grades and standardized tests do not accurately depict what all students (and adults) know and can do. There should be multiple paths to mastery where students can use real-world tools to engage in meaningful work. Making and makerspaces allow students to do to learn, as opposed to always learning to do. Allowing students to identify a problem and then giving them the freedom to develop a working solution not only builds confidence, but also shows kids that all learning matters. 

Storyteller

There is a great deal of scientific backing on how storytelling positively impacts the brain. Thanks to technology students now have the means to share their learning journey and tell a story in the process.  When aligned to well-developed assessments and standards the use of learning stories can be leveraged to articulate how educators are preparing students in better ways. Adults can also embrace becoming the storyteller-in-chief to change the narrative. Define or be defined. The choice is yours.

Efficacy-driven

Efficacy is the degree to which desired outcomes and goals are achieved. Evidence matters. Not only does it matter, but in the real work it is what our stakeholders expect.  It is important to identify what the Return on Instruction (ROI) is when implementing new ideas and technologies.  Evidence helps to quantify success. Success breeds success.

To transform teaching, learning, and leadership we must transform our thinking and then act. Actions change things. Don’t prepare students for something. Prepare them for anything.  For transformation to result, you must also be prepared for anything.  Think boldly, but act courageously.  Your work matters more than ever.

What's Hidden in You?

I really had quite the fixed mindset early on as a young school leader. Success was defined by how well I performed my daily routine.  In my opinion, I worked hard but really didn’t push myself outside my comfort zone.  The reason was that in my mind there were just certain things I couldn’t do…nor had to. I didn’t have the “talent”, pre-disposition, personality, or character to do certain things. Thus, I didn’t really pursue activities that might have made me a better school leader. I did what I had to do to get by, never giving any real thought to what I was truly capable of. 

Professional practice had been dictated to me or so I thought. What we are capable of is really a combination of our mindset and the support or feedback we get from others. Intrinsic motivation to become better and grow in ways like never before will be all some people need, but others need a bit more guidance. I think I fell in the latter category.  Our minds are often the greatest advisor that we face each day, thus it is important to constantly improve our intellectual bank and diversify our networks in order to help unlock hidden talents.

For me, becoming a connected educator in early 2009 served as a catalyst for professional growth in ways that I could never have imagined. First and foremost, I improved and diversified my intellectual bank. As I developed and grew my Personal Learning Network (PLN) I learned how much I did not know. The resources, ideas, strategies, different points of view, support, and feedback that I received from people across the globe, many of which have now become good friends, pushed me to pursue transformative change. I don’t have to go into great detail on all the sustainable changes that were implemented over the course of five years as I have written extensively on the topic. 

The bottom line though is that the conversations and relationships that evolved thanks to a diversified network and enhanced intellectual bank unlocked leadership qualities hidden inside me. Critical conversations now occurred both face to face and virtually. My circle of trust extended beyond the brick and mortar walls of my building as I now had access to trusted colleagues who were willing to provide advice no matter when I needed it. This was the push I had constantly been seeking during my professional career and it ultimately motivated me well beyond what I thought I could do.

Through my diversified network, I met Ken Royal, one of the nicest people you will ever meet. He pushed me to extend beyond the use of Twitter to share what was going on in my school through a blog. I was very resistant, as I did not consider myself a writer. The process of writing was always a struggle for me. Needless to say, he motivated and coached me on the process of blogging. Now years later I have four published books and two more on the way in 2017. By no means am I a prolific writer in my opinion. For me, writing anything beyond 300 words is an accomplishment. One that I would have never realized if it had not been for the professional relationships I formed in online spaces.

Social media, Twitter and blogging in particular, had another unintended, positive consequence. Through the sharing of our work at New Milford High School I began to receive many invitations to present on our many evidence-based change initiatives. If I was afraid to write then I was terrified to speak in public. Prior to becoming connected I could never speak in public for more than five minutes unscripted. The more I was asked to present the better I became with little scripting. This had an immediate impact in my district as I become better at articulating key messages to my stakeholders. Little did I know how this change would carry me to an entirely new career.  I never realized I had a calling in public speaking and could never have imagined speaking to incredible educators across the globe. 

Doubt, leading to a lack of confidence, often clouds our true abilities.   Our minds are quick to revert back to safe mode when we are faced with a challenge or engaging in an innovative activity.  I hope my examples above illustrate that anything can be possible.  Once you are able to unlock what’s hidden inside you, you will be in a better position to help others unlock their hidden talents, skills, and passions.