My Habit
Processing this habit, I can see the link between the Habit #1 - Be Proactive and Habit #2 - Start with the End in Mind. Visionaries are proactive. Being proactive means being responsible for our behavior. This type of character will be open minded and see what we want, understand that in order to get what we want, we will need and be willing to take some action to get the results we are anticipating. In the past year and a half, I believe that I significantly developed this habit. With the guidance and support of my supervisor, the majority of our work, begins with the end in mind. I have seen the improvement in the quality of my work and the results, but more importantly I have seen the positive impact it makes on my colleagues when I communicate upcoming initiatives, provide training or share information when I practice this habit. After receiving positive results, I plan to continue to apply this habit, not only at work, but also in my personal life.
At this point in my professional life, due to the consist changes, I set goals for the year. This year, my end in mind is earning a Master’s that is providing me with knowledge and skills that transfer perfectly to my current position as District Instructional Coach.
My Commitment
Today, I did teach this habit to a small group of colleagues that I was collaborating with on curriculum planning. They didn’t start with the end in mind and the process was slow. After reviewing the process and work that was done. I explained Habit #2 and guided them through the initial stages. They were familiar with the concept; however since they were already in the habit of starting at the beginning, it was a shift for them, but one that they embraced. I also plan to reinforce my learning of Habit #2 by continuing to teach it to my daughter. Once again, because she is in this transition phase in her life, that can be confusing and stressful, I want to expose her to starting with the end in mind. This is something that I wish I would’ve known at her age. Most of my learning at her age came through experience, which is sometimes better; however, I know if I would’ve known how these habits influence my behavior and outcomes, the road to my goal would’ve been less bumpy.
The best work we can all do is create the highest vision possible for our lives... and be led by the vision for the greatest good...Oprah.