This is my 200th blog post. Looking back over the last 5 years (initial point of this blog in November 2009) I wrote whatever which came to mind and did not care about the content, let alone continuing it. But I think this is something I would like to keep doing in my own pace, and I hope to improve such that I become very good at.
Speaking of which, are you good at what you really like?
When I was a early primary school teacher, I had several opportunities to talk about this kind of thing, since there are many materials on it, such as self-introduction card. And some kids had hard time filling them out and asked me some help, to which I used to say the following:
It is really hard to find something you are passionate about not only for you young generation but also for adults, so those who already found it, please keep cultivating it. If you don’t have it yet, don’t worry, you will find it eventually, maybe you can start whatever you might think of, because sometimes what you are good at can turn into be what you really like. What’s important is constantly looking for and taking action.
Nodding their heads, some students came to think of something to fill out with. But kids, it was actually a message for all of us, including me.
When it comes to passion and competence, I finally finished the book called “The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything ” written by an English Educator Sir Ken Robinson. This book talks exclusively and profoundly about this issue, and he defines “Element” as the place where the things we love to do and the things we are good at come together. I think this book is not only for educator but for everyone regardless of age and profession, because it can teach us about life per se (and the problem of the current education system).
When I was reading this, I thought of a dancer who auditioned for the dance show (and is also an educator!). Even though he was really good at his style (hip hop, breakin’ with his big body which was an advantage to surprise), he wanted to challenge for other type of dance show (like ballet or jazz). He passed pre-selection successfully with his style, but as predicted, he couldn’t pass the main audition. This reminded me that sometimes we want something we are not good at, and vice versa, thus it is really difficult and fortunate to be able to find the element.
This is his style, and is pretty surprising.
【So You Think You Can Dance Season 9 Auditions Leroy Martinez】
For the next 10 days, I will be traveling in Brazil to visit a beautiful place I dreamed of going 7 years ago when I saw its picture. I like traveling and I think I am good at taking quick move (maybe it’s an element?). I can’t wait to achieve my goal soon.