Embrace Creativity

“Have the audacity to keep dreaming in full color, come undone, letting hope have its way.” ~ Morgan Harper Nichols 

In my book, “Called to the Classroom: Daily Reflections for Educators,” I’ve divided up the 180 reflections into six main themes. If you are following along with us, we are on Day #121 today which begins our fifth section: I Am Creative. As I skimmed through the thirty reflections in this section, I was reminded why this was my favorite section to write. I believe creativity is embedded into our spirits as educators. The approaches we take with students, the lessons we plan, and the projects we inspire are rooted in our authentic creativity. My teacher tip for us today is to embrace this creativity. 

Throughout my years as a teacher, sometimes I’ve felt that I’m either not a very creative teacher or that my creativity is frivolous. By this I mean, I feel like taking the time and energy to tap into my creativity is time I can’t afford. At this time of the year there are often parent-teacher conferences, preparations for testing, and school events to fit into the schedule. At times I feel I don’t have permission to invite my creativity into the classroom. 

But this isn’t true. As teachers, we are inspirational professionals - experts in our craft. While the exhaustion is real and our bodies and minds are ready for respite, remember that there is still a cry inside of our souls to share our passions and ideas. When we welcome this calling into our spaces of learning, a spark inside of us is kindled, affecting our students too. So however this looks for you, I want to inspire you today to embrace creativity. Give it some room. When an idea emerges, give it attention and see where it takes you. Have the audacity to keep dreaming in full color.