Lessons from a 3rd Grade Classroom: The Power of Flexibility, Kindness, and Lifelong Learning

Hello Everyone!

I want to share a remarkable story with you today. Recently, my son received a touching letter and gift from his 3rd-grade teacher, Miss Tousna. It was simple, heartfelt, and full of wisdom. Here’s what she wrote:

"We had such a fun year. Thank you for understanding all the times I was gone. I hope you always look back at 4th grade and remember to go with the flow. Be flexible and be kind. I will miss you, but always remember I'm only one email away."

Reading this, I realized how much we, as leaders and HR professionals, can learn from these words. Let’s dive into the lessons and see how they apply to our daily work life.

One of the most profound aspects of Miss Tousna’s letter is the simple act of remembering to send it. Those of us who know her well and know what she has going on in her personal life would understand how unique and significant this act is to put everything aside to remember this.?

?In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook small gestures, yet these are often the most impactful. Miss Tousna took the time to reflect on the year, acknowledge her students, and offer lasting advice. This act of thoughtfulness shows the power of taking a moment to connect and express gratitude. It’s a reminder that small, sincere gestures can leave lasting impressions and build solid and meaningful relationships in leadership and life. I can tell you the smile on my son’s face when he received it. His reaction was highly positive and priceless. Now, the picture sits in his room for daily inspiration.?

Going back to the content of Miss Tousna letter. She began by acknowledging the fun they had throughout the year, even when she wasn’t always present. This reminded me of the importance of creating a positive and enjoyable environment at work. When people enjoy what they do, they’re more engaged and productive. It’s the small moments of joy and recognition that keep a team together, even when things get tough.

Next, she encouraged her students to "go with the flow" and "be flexible." In our fast-paced world, things rarely go as planned. As leaders, we must adapt to changing circumstances and stay calm under pressure. Flexibility isn’t just about adjusting schedules or plans; it’s about being open to new ideas and finding creative solutions. When we go with the flow, we turn obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Miss Tousna also emphasized the importance of kindness. In leadership, kindness is often overlooked, yet it’s a powerful tool. Leading with empathy and understanding builds trust and fosters a supportive work environment. When we show kindness, we all win. We create a culture where ?everyone feels like they are home and they matter.

But beyond flexibility and kindness, there’s another lesson embedded in Miss Tousna’s words: the value of lifelong learning. She reassured her students that she’s "only one email away," highlighting the importance of staying connected and seeking guidance. This reminds me of the Moroccan proverb, "Ask an experienced person rather than a doctor." It underscores the value of wisdom and continuous learning from those around us.

In our professional journeys, we should always be open to learning, whether it’s from mentors, colleagues, or even our own experiences. Lifelong learning keeps us curious, innovative, and adaptable. It’s about understanding that there’s always room to grow and improve.

Reflecting on Miss Tousna’s letter from a different lens, it’s clear that these lessons apply not just to leadership but to life itself. Creating joyful environments, being flexible, showing kindness, and committing to lifelong learning are principles that enrich both our personal and professional lives.

Finally, this story is a beautiful reminder of the impact teachers have on our lives, and future. They shape not just our knowledge, but our character and values. We owe a lot to educators like Miss Tousna who go above and beyond to make a difference.

To all the teachers out there, especially Miss Tousna, thank you for your dedication and the invaluable lessons you impart. Your influence extends far beyond the classroom and into our everyday lives.

So, to my fellow leaders and HR professionals, let’s take a page from Miss Tousna’s book. Let’s create joyful environments, adapt to changes, lead with kindness, and keep the lines of communication open. Let’s also commit to lifelong learning, embracing wisdom from all sources to continually grow and improve.

Go out there, lead and inspire! Have a great week

Warm regards,

Mohsine Gdid

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