“By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.”
— Confucius
Reflection is an important habit to foster in any lifestyle. Taking time out of our normal habits and daily routines helps us refresh ourselves. Keeping our work lives in balance with our personal lives is important to keeping a positive mental health. It also helps with our physical health! Taking time to relax our minds and bodies can very beneficial, especially if we feel like we are under constant stress or pressure.
Reflection is often seen as an outlet, often similarly referred to as meditation, contemplation, and absorption. According to Dictionary.com, reflection in this sense is seen as “a fixing of the thoughts on something; careful consideration.”
Giving something “careful consideration” means to ponder the deeper workings, assumptions, and impacts of something. Reflection can lead someone almost anywhere. However, if we focus on where we are at in life, where we would like to be, and how we can get there, we can often improve our own learning and outlook on life.
Becoming a good learner in life (and hopefully a good teacher!) takes a lot of reflection. In wanting to improve my learning and my thoughts on teaching, I am looking forward to reflecting as a part of my “normal life routine.”
Lastly, reflection also helps us remember important life lessons that we may have forgotten at one point. Or, as is the case with many of my class notes, take notes on important topics and ruminate on them at a later time to really soak them up. In wanting to make the most of my learning at this time in life, I will be reflecting on how education has evolved and how teachers can make an impact on education today.
I would love for you to join me on this journey of reflection and learning!
Maeve A. Olson 