Center Yourself
By Andrew Marotta
Connect
Evolve
Notice
Thank
Energize
Reward
I had an amazing time presenting at the Model Schools conference in Orlando, Florida in the summer of 2024. What an incredible event of learning, inspiration, and educators coming together to grow. It was tremendously well run and a super successful event.
I also enjoyed hearing the keynote speakers. One of them was author and psychologist Dr. Michelle Rozen. She recently wrote the book The 6% Club. Her research on setting and accomplishing goals has discovered that only 6% of people stick to their goals. She shared valuable lessons for K-12 leaders and educators in her speech and invited us to join the 6% club.
She ended her talk with this acronym: C.E.N.T.E.R.
Connect – Evolve -Notice- Thank- Energize – Reward
I loved it. In all that we do, these are things that we can keep in our center, the core of who we want to be. I think these points are so important, and I felt close to the meaning of this acronym. Each one is special in their own way.
Obviously, I love to be energized and spread energy to others. I can identify with all the points, but I really want to focus on the point: Evolve. We, as educators and leaders, must continue to evolve. The game has changed in so many ways. We’ve all heard the stories about Blockbuster and Kodak. How they did not continue to evolve. Think about Netflix. What might’ve happened if Netflix had not moved on from physical DVD sharing when they started to where they are now? These successful companies have evolved with the times. We must continue to grow, learn, and try new things. Evolving will keep us moving forward.
If I could help you on your journey, don’t hesitate to reach out! Keep surviving and thriving friends. Thank you to Model Schools for an amazing event, and thank you to Dr. Rozen for sharing this important mindset of being centered.