Growing What’s in Front of Us: Lessons from the Classroom to the Boardroom

Teachers Can’t Fire Students, But We Can Change Lives

As a teacher, I don’t get to choose who’s in front of me. There’s no “firing” a struggling student, no transferring out a kid who disrupts the class. Instead, my job is to invest in them—to understand their challenges, meet them where they are, and help them grow into the best versions of themselves.

In the business world, the rules are different. Struggling employees are often shown the door without much thought about what they could achieve with the right support. But here’s the thing: throwing people away doesn’t build stronger teams—or stronger communities.

The Power of Connection

This lesson hit close to home as I reflected on my own experience with weight struggles. For years, people tried to force me to see my “problem,” shaming me into change. But shame doesn’t inspire—it shuts you down.

What has helped are connections I can relate to: moments where someone took the time to break things down in a way that made sense to me, like explaining metabolic health instead of attacking my body. Those smaller, respectful conversations opened my heart and mind in ways no amount of criticism ever could.

The same is true in teaching. When we take the time to understand our students, read their stories, and learn what strategies work for them, we build bridges. We create a pathway to their growth. Imagine if businesses took the same approach with their employees.

The Marigold Effect

Teachers often talk about the “marigold effect.” Marigolds are companion plants that protect and nurture the growth of the plants around them. To be a great teacher, you have to be a marigold for your students.

It’s not about expecting perfection from day one; it’s about:

• Identifying their strengths and challenges.
• Trying new strategies when old ones don’t work.
• Giving them the space to bloom, even if it takes time.

In business, this mentality could change everything. Instead of discarding employees who don’t immediately meet expectations, what if leaders approached them as marigolds? What if performance reviews became growth roadmaps instead of termination plans?

The Ripple Effect of Investing in People

When we invest in the people around us, the impact doesn’t stop with them. A student who feels seen and supported grows into an adult who contributes to their community. An employee who feels valued brings innovation, loyalty, and motivation to their team.

Treating people with dignity and respect has a ripple effect that strengthens not just individuals, but entire systems. And in a world that often feels disconnected, that’s the kind of leadership we need.

A Challenge to Leaders

As a teacher, I’ve learned to focus on one simple truth: I don’t get to pick who’s in front of me, but I do get to choose how I show up for them.

Whether you’re in a classroom or a boardroom, the question is the same:

• Are you showing up as a marigold, helping others thrive?
• Or are you approaching leadership with a “throwaway” mentality?

The choice is yours, and the ripple effect starts with you.

The Long Game

Take a moment today to look at the people in front of you—your students, your team, your colleagues. What steps can you take to help them grow?

Growth is a long game, but when we choose to invest in others, we create something far more powerful than short-term wins. We build communities, businesses, and futures that thrive.