It’s Not Meant to be Easy

Wise words I’ve heard the other day from a recent PhD graduate that resonates with me as a learner and as a teacher… “It’s not meant to be easy.”

This PhD graduate was referring to her dissertation process… but really, “it” refers to any learning process.  If it was meant to be easy, are you really learning something new?

I sit here and struggle with the writing process, wondering if I am doing “it” right or not.  My curiosity quickly turns into an obsession, then into fear.

Taking any risks, trying something new, or “learning” is next to impossible if I feel scared, apprehensive, or insecure.  Does this sound familiar to you?

No progress means no growth and no intrinsic satisfaction… AKA: Failure.

What this PhD graduate exemplified to me was… find your passion, take risks, and go for it.  She had a vision and went for it.  The details seemed to fall into place.

So, if you are engaged in higher education… AWESOME… take a leap of faith and put yourself out there.  If you are teaching… try something new and change your practice. 

In the end, all of the your work, time, and effort will be worth it.  Be the learner.