Losing my husband unexpectedly shattered my world. In the midst of my grief, I found myself grappling with an unfamiliar sense of emptiness and confusion. Yet, within the depths of despair and the need to brave up for my children, I discovered an improbable source of strength and resilience.  It is then that my perspective changed and my educational voyage re-launched.

This journey, guided by the principles of Breaking down barriers, Advocating, and Mentoring others (B.A.M.), has not only helped me heal but has also empowered me to become a better educator. Instead of allowing myself to be confined by sorrow, I chose to break free from the constraints of my pain and embrace the possibilities that lay ahead.

Breaking Down Barriers became a mantra not only personally but in teaching as well. As I confronted the walls of grief, I realized the importance of breaking down barriers for my students which eventually led to colleagues as well.  Aiming to leverage my passion for learning to think unconventionally by breaking down educational silos, I’ve tried to cultivate a community which values the connection between physical activity and academic learning. The barriers for me have been educational silos but it could mean something else to you.

Breaking down educational silos fosters interdisciplinary learning and creates a more connected educational experience for students. It establishes relationships with colleagues and students. It is an opportunity to ADVOCATE for physical activity and its importance on a much bigger platform.

Advocating is only possible once you find your niche.  That is where your passion lies.  We all are passionate educators but our niche varies.  Passion + Courage = Advocacy. Be Courageous and Step out of your comfort zone.  It is our passion that compels us to ADVOCATE for the things we find important.  And–It is advocacy that inspires motivation.  When we are motivated, we become inspirational to others. Start small and build out.  Flaunt your passion in your building, department, district and state.It is contagious!  Students learn best from passionate educators.  Your colleagues and admin also learn from you when you are passionate.

Motivation is the best tool in staying relevant.  For me, It started with finding my tribe. That means surrounding yourself  with like minded educators who encourage a growth mindset.  When you are passionate, you are able to advocate.  Through your advocacy, motivation occurs. When you motivate others you are not only empowering them but motivating them to empower others. Break Down Barriers, Advocate, and Motivate others through your passion! What is YOUR niche? I encourage you to start there. Find your tribe, those individuals who inspire and motivate you to inspire and motivate others. It is all connected and B.A.M. the students WIN (and so do you).

This microblog post was a featured post in #slowchathealth’s #microblogmonth event. You can search for all of the featured posts here. Please do follow each of the outstanding contributors on social media (including Cindie Cortinas-Vogt, the author of this post) and consider writing a microblog post of your own to be shared with the global audience of slowchathealth.com

Pair this blog post with the following:

Love Letters From Dad by  Kathy Brophy

The Ties That Bind – the Influence of Our Coaches by Brenda Carbery-Tang

Find Your Tribe by Cindie Cortinas-Vogt

Have you read the latest Book of the Month recommendation?