Treat People Like You See Them

Attendance problems, late assignments, whispering with others in class, “You can’t imagine how demanding this group is. My students are such a problem, they make this class intolerable.” Have you ever caught yourself sharing the misery of your “difficult students” with other instructors on break, or before and after class?

If so take the following challenge:

The next time you talk about a student with anyone else make it something constructive and positive. Then as you walk away from the conversation pat yourself on the back and consider how good it feels to build up others instead of tearing them down. I’m convinced when you treat people exactly like you see them you get the results you expect.

It’s like mining for diamonds, you move tons and tons of dirt to find a single gem diamond – but you don’t go into the mine looking for dirt — you go in looking for the gems.

According to Earl Nightingale; “Our environment, the world in which we live and work, is a mirror of our attitudes and expectations.” Interesting. This says to me that the attitude and expectations of my students is simply a reflection of me! Yes, I am responsible.

Create a new habit of treating people exactly like you see them - with respect, and dignity, look for the gem in other people. When you look for those characteristics in others — surprise, you will find them and nurture them in you!

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