I have the benefit of being at the annual ASCD conference, #EMPOWER17, this weekend, and as always, there are so many incredible things to learn and to see.
But the best thing that happened today? Completely random and happened because I just have no social fear. We were walking back and forth down one of the hallways deciding where we were going to next and noticed a passionate conversation that I finally just couldn’t help but just jump into. Like literally, stopped and said, “Hey, what are ya’ll talking about because it looks incredibly interesting.”
It was real talk, ya’ll. It was about impacting parents, impacting students…it was about changing the world when the target of change keeps moving. We talked about how very hard leadership is, no matter what your population looks like. We talked about the dangers of vulnerability, in evaluative settings. Of the inherent dangers of having a plan, sharing that plan…and the bravery it takes to make that plan happen. It was intense, and it was amazing. And all because I’m bouncey and random. 
Be brave, edufriends. If you’re at #empower17, step out of the comfort zone of the people who you know. If you’re at a conference, MAKE CONNECTIONS. Be willing to initiate conversations, regardless of the lane you find yourself in today. You never know when you might develop a relationship, learn a lesson, or get a burst of inspiration. Angela was so impressed (Do you know Angela? She is pretty darn amazing.) that she’s going to meet back up with Ms. Hairston this weekend and have her on her “Truth for Teachers” podcast.
I hope you’re following along the hashtag, #empower17, there is greatness being shared! And if you’re feeling brave? Share something too!
tweetingly,
Amber
I love this post Amber!! I do have social fears but realize what I miss out on when I don’t “put myself out there”. Thank you for your candor, your enthusiasm and your fearlessness! I am not at #Empower17, but I am following the hashtag. Love the F2F connections being made with many from my PLN. A few short years ago people from all over would have converged on the convention and many would have only known those they traveled there with and perhaps a few others. The connections made through social media are truly changing the landscape of professional learning! Keep making a difference!
Karen
Heard you speak at IPLI summer of 2015. Can hear you now in this post! Your passion comes through loud and clear..AWESOME
This comment just makes my heart SO happy!