What Is Your Mindset?

I believe we are tools that shape younger generations and the world that they will be living in. As a future educator, I want to believe that I am more than a guy who is controlled by the tools around him. Do not get me wrong, technology is an amazing thing that will further the ability for teachers to do their jobs well – but at the end of the day a teacher must have a personal connection with students to be able to make a real impact in a students lives. There are not many machines that have the ability to connect with students in a way that will have an impact in their lives.

            I also believe that people choose to be a “tool” or a “tool user.” There are many educators, high school and college level, that just flip through slides and do not try to create a personal connection between the subject and student. While some teachers believe that there is more to teaching than being able to take a test well or being able to memorize equations. Some teachers make themselves the tool, and become an essential part to their students growing process. This influence does not have to be a political or social influence, but rather the encouragement of self-thinking and creativity, because this is what makes truly great thinkers and leaders for the future.

            This concept could also be used in other things that are not teaching. If someone wants to go into business, one would want to believe that they are making some kind of difference, not just a replaceable part. In parenting, parents should raise their children to think for themselves, and to always search deeper than what is presented to them. One should try to have the mindset of being a tool in everything that they do.