Learning and Socializing in a Fast Paced World

It seems today, learning has become work and frankly socializing can feel that way too. Finding time to really explore something that interests you can feel like another task to check off the list.
How about combining the two and having some fun just for you? One solution from a group of friends in Indianapolis, Indiana was to get a jump on holiday decorations and presents. They scheduled monthly meetings and gave them a high priority. (We all know how life seems to creep in on good intentions.) The group selected projects that were inexpensive so money wasn’t a barrier to participation. Each month a different friend hosted the gathering and chose a project from the list that was created by the entire group. They sent out an email reminder two weeks before the event with a list of supplies needed to participate in that month’s get-together. The friends began purchasing supplies together when time allowed which added another opportunity to spend time with each other. At the meeting, the host was responsible for teaching everyone how to accomplish that month’s activity. The outcome was lots of laughter, a head start on the holidays, a new skill learned and sometimes a gift only a parent could love.
Holiday presents and decorations might not be your priority, so how about applying their idea to your profession? Your group might gather to create bulletin boards, classroom activities or visual models to name just a few ideas. Remember you deserve time to relax and re-energize. Add some fun into the great work you do. It will definitely mean a better you!


Professional Development Tip for July 10, 2008