Introvert stepping out

Over the years I have changed. I believe I have grown but also kept solid to the roots of my personality that I've had since birth. One of the things that I've noticed about myself - and am not ashamed to admit - is I don't do fluff. I don't do warm sunshine, butterflies, unicorns and rainbows. If something is wrong I'll tell you...and fix it. If I am thinking something I'll let it be known when the time is right. In the world we live in it seems that those are negative traits. People are too sensitive to the truth and we must hide it from them. I don't understand this logic. I am one that would rather be hurt by truth than lies...or fluff. This is why I believe I've become a black sheep in the world of Student Affairs. 

I'm an introvert, so I'm already fighting a battle to fit in with my colleagues. However, I don't believe I should have the need to feel that way. How are we to be open to our students that come to us from all different backgrounds and walks of life if we ourselves do not respect our peers? Is this not the career that should be warm and welcoming? Are we not helping mold young adults into successful members of society? 

No. I don't want to get together and hold hands and sing Kumbayah next to a campfire, but how about we be just a bit more understanding of our own every once in a while? In our differences we bring great ideas to the field and in our own right are assets in developing a better tomorrow. Next time a colleague is a little "rough around the edges" when giving a response - take a minute to see where they were coming from. Still not sure? Ask them. With the rise of technology and social media sometimes I feel that we've lost our ability to communicate. These are hurdles we deal with when interacting with students; we need to be prepared for the race and have a plan to navigate through the course.

Welcome!

I believe I have tried to start a blog before and unfortunately went nowhere with it. I also can't recall where that start began so I am creating a whole new space - right here! I'm not sure what this is going to be, but I thought it was worthwhile to give it a shot. So, if you're interested stick around and wait for the journey to unfold.

[I have two posts started already...now if only I can just finish them!]