Barry Westling

Hi Marisa:
It true, to create, believe in, and convey a presence of confidence and competence. How we see ourselves is an inner perception that, at lest to us, is our reality.

I think this also contributes to us being more natural, calm and relaxed in our delivery. Students appreciate the honesty and sincerity of someone who "konws their stuff and expresses it well". It also helps us being approachable, tolerant, patient, and encouraging and supportive of our students.

Students like being in this kind of positive environment. It has to contribute to better student outcomes.

Regards, Barry

Marisa Martell

As individuals, we each have the ability to create and orchestrate our lives into whatever we choose. I am a firm believer in the manifestation of self-image and beliefs in the way our lives take shape.
There is no limit to our potential and our influence for good in this life. It has become extremely important for me to continue to convey these beliefs to my students, to encourage them to believe in themselves and realize the potential and greatness they are capable of. Hopefully, I can lead by example.

Barry Westling

Hi Richard:
Personal affirmations and commitments to oneself are less visible these days, although I think many students still attend school because theyn want something - sometthing better than they have or have had, and they're willing to make the needed sacrifices.

You gave a quote (I use that one too). Here's another: "The life you had doesn't have to be the life you have". We can be a part of providing that opporotunity, that hope, that fulfilment and satisfaction that comes from accomplishing something worthwhile.

And if we do it with enthusiasm, excitement, and optimism, that can be transfered to the rightly motivated student.

Regards, Barry

Richard Weil CHEP

I agree that you have to believe in yourself. It isn't always easy, especially when things go wrong. But it's surprising what can be accomplished when you start from a positive attitude and are willing to keep learning how to do things better.

Now the gap between what one can do and your opportunities can be an issue. Let's face it, if you're 60 years old no matter how smart and skilled you are some things (medical school, for example) are probably not realistic. On the other hand, at any age with the right attitude, knowledge and drive you can be a darn good teacher. Henry Ford was a bastard, but he got it right when he said:

Whether you say you can or you say you can't--your're right!

Barry Westling

Hi Gregory:
It's been quoted "Whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right!". Self confidence, courage, pushing a little harder, these kind traits tend to reinforce the internal drive to achieve and perform. We should encourage and reinforce these tenets whenever given the opportunity.

Regards, Barry

Gregory Hessler

I am agreat believer in this statement. I think that if you say you can do it you will, but if you think you can not, you will not. I teach a mechanics class and I have often told my students that when I was in the field I set my mind to the fact that I could fix anything that came my way. So if I put this mind set to my classroom I am ready for class just if I was repairing an engine.