T.H.R.I.V.E.

The first week is behind me now. Looking back... all I can do is smile. I AM where I was meant to be. I have found a place that I didn't even knew could be real. While I know no university (or any place of work) will be perfect, this might be as close as I can come. At the very least it is perfect for now.

My first week on the last day of orientation I was reminded that we all need to THRIVE as professors.

T - Take advantage of the available resources.  They have soooo many programs and certificates it's crazy. So I am. I am taking classes for two certificates to help continue develop my teaching. One is for online teaching and the other is for the writing intensive class I have to teach. They also have a program that will edit and guide scholarship before we send it out for journal review. How cool is that!

H - Have Fun. Seems like an easy thing to do, right?  Well for me sometimes I need a reminder. I am type A, a workaholic, and a perfectionist. All ingredients for trouble and stress.  Luckily have a great husband who often keeps things fun, and will pull me away for fun when I forget.

R - Remember they picked you. YES!! Yes they did. And not only did they pick me, they put in a specific request for an additional line JUST FOR ME. I need to remember this anytime my imposter starts talking loudly. This week with the students helped a TON. They are already connecting as my Carroll students did. Kinda makes me wonder if they weren't right after all. Maybe I really do set the tone.

I - Invite Feedback; ask for advice. I have decided that I need to stop fearing feedback. The only way I can get better is by asking for help and advice. I am so quick to ask for help in some areas of my life, why not apply the understanding to my teaching and writing. So I have signed up for the peer and student review process for my class (another cool program offered). And I will seek support from my colleges.

V - Vision. Where are you going? After meeting with the Dean for my Professional Development Plan it was even clearer that I am indeed in a wonderful place. She not only seemed excited for what I offer, but was also able to see the potential in me for leadership roles.  I have always thought I could be a great dean someday, but to hear one say they see it in you... really helps. The best part of the conversation however was the advice to always think about HOW I want to grow. What is my vision for my career? How can I PACE myself to grow in the right ways. It's so easy to get ahead of yourself, so focusing on the vision will be helpful. I also have to keep in mind that really I am only at the beginning of my journey. I still have 30 some years before I would retire. I have LOTS of time to get to my benchmarks. I just can't give up.

E - Excuse Yourself (Say No, Shut the door). Sometimes it is smarter to say NO for the moment, than to take on more than you can do. I suffer from wanting to do everything, but knowing that is the first step. I must remember my vision and ask if the activity or what not will help me reach the goal. If not... Might have to pass. I also need to make sure I keep writing. I will need to get into a habit of writing everyday. I know it will take planning, and determination, but I know I can do it.

I have taken so much away from the various meetings I went to last week. I am thrilled to be starting on this journey, and I think this might be a long season. I certainly hope that is the case. SO far signs seem to point to yes. I will go for it. I will have faith.  If I am meant to be somewhere else... ok. We will take it a day at a time. I will only control what I can, and let go of what I can't.

Could it be.... I have finally grown up?