Here at netlogx we have moved over to using Google Apps to manage much of our infrastructure including email. This also allows us to use Google Chat as an instant messaging service and most of our team has set custom messaging reflecting a broad range of ideas from inspirational to practical. Today I noticed one of our newer team members is sharing:
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” – Mahatma Gandhi.
This resonated with me today because yesterday I started my day talking with a great group from the International School of Indiana (ISI).
My children are fortunate to attend ISI and one of the themes they hear is that they need to be ready to play on a world stage in careers that may not be defined yet – daunting to an old school philosophy but thrilling when obstacles are viewed as challenges. In the heart of the Midwest the school is a haven of natural diversity created from a campus with teachers and students from many countries – 45 at the last count in February. The school is the first school in Indiana to be authorized by the International Baccalaureate (IB) Organization to offer all three IB programs Primary Years (PYP) Middle Years (MYP) and the Diploma. These IB programs aim to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet help to create a better and more peaceful world. IB learners strive to be:
| Learner Profiles | Attributes |
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They develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives. |
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They explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines. |
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They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions. |
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They understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others. |
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They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them. |
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They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience. |
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They show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment. |
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They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending their beliefs. |
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They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others. |
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They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development. |
This ability to recognize that we all contribute in our different ways seems to me to be a fantastic lesson to take in early. Since kindergarten they have come home initially with stickers – and now as teenagers with house points (à la Harry Potter) for showing one or more of the above profiles.
At netlogx as we’ve grown we have looked to ways to reach out and connect across projects as netlogx team members and we now look to recognize great work, dedication and thinking differently at our monthly team meetings. Learning to look inside our team or across our project members for these learner profiles seems a great way to identify these moments when we all shine in our own ways.
Back to Ghandi and the ideas behind these thoughts that we should always be open to learn – I truly believe by remaining open and willing to learn we can all become outstanding performers.
A book I’m reading for pleasure:
My son was reading this for 10th grade English and it has always been a favorite of mine.
A book I’m reading for business:
The PMOSIG Program Management Office Handbook: Strategic and Tactical Insights for Improving Results by Craig J. Letavec and Dennis Bolles
What I’m listening to on my ipod:
A Day Without Rain by ENYA
There has been a lot going on recently and this music always allows me to focus.
Quote:
“Be observing constantly. Stay open minded. Be eager to learn and improve.” – John Wooden.
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