21/05/2023
Do you lead groups or guide individuals? How does this responsibility impact you? Ever feel like you should do more, know more, be different?
Depending on the context, the people involved, and the subject matter, I experience guiding others as either exhilarating, or a delicate dance with impostor syndrome. Often, it is a blend of both, encompassing curiosity, insecurities, passion, presence, etc.
Years ago, a teacher of mine emphasized the importance of keeping our personal matters separate from our role as teachers. Undoubtedly, holding space requires the ability to contain ourselves and fully engage with our students' experiences. Plus, some students may appreciate a teacher who stays at a distance.
I am not that type of student. I thrive in my own learning when I can relate to someone as a genuine human being with both strengths and challenges. A mentor who knows their subject matter and maintains professional boundaries on the one hand, but who is not afraid to show vulnerability, to express personal opinions (while acknowledging their subjectivity) on the other hand; Someone who remains open to revising their views based on the feedback they receive. It is this type of sincere and respectful teacher-student relationship that I trust instinctively. Thanks to this trust, I take away the greatest amount of learning.
From a remarkable sequencing strategy to what can feel like x-ray vision, has a lot of knowledge to offer. After three weekends with her, I’ve certainly jotted down tons of new ideas and tricks. Beyond that, I’m grateful to have a mentor who portrays balancing professional competence with personal authenticity. Observing Annie grant herself permission to be herself in a teaching context encourages me to do the same. Learning about some of her struggles, hearing her respond "I don't know,” from time to time, and witnessing her genuine interest in her students' points of view contribute to finding more ease in my own teaching practice: Her example helps me soothe my insecurities and remind myself that, while there is always more to learn, I am already enough.