Thing #1

Habits of Lifelong Learners:
When people think of learning, the mental image of someone sitting in a desk listening to a lecture (or in a collaborative group working on something together) in a formal classroom setting.  It was refreshing to listen/watch the online tutorial about how and when true learning occurs.  Sure, there are a vast amount of learning opportunities in the classroom for both young and old; however, learning also occurs while dancing, exercising, playing a game, reading, using technology, acting, and working on one's personal hobbies.  I gleaned from the tutorial that it is never too soon nor too late to learn and that learning takes place at all levels and at any age. 

Having said that, the easiest habit for me is "being responsible for my own learning" (habit #2).  I see my continuing in education as an investiment in myself and my future.  I see the benefits of my continuing education on others around me: in my personal life and professional life.  I take great pride in my accomplishments at the end of every graduate class, teacher in-service, article review, professional development, and any training I may come across.

The hardest habit for me is probably number one and three.  I believe because I have a hard time with habit #1 (begin with the end in mind: consider the major goal first) that is why I have to say I have a difficult time with habit #3 (view problems as challenges; not crises).  I believe if I started with the end in mind, it would help me gain a better perspective when problems arise.  If I keep my goal in mind, problems disappear and I would see these challenges as opportunities to learn. 

Coming up next: Thing #2 -- Reflection on setting up my very own BLOG!