Walking along the streets of Paris recently, I noted the fact that I had to maintain focus on several things simultaneously – which is not an easy thing to do – or keep adjusting my attention between several things. As the area was unfamiliar to me, I had to think carefully about where I intended to go. There were times when I had to stop and refer to a pocket-sized book of maps of the Paris arrondissements and work out where I was, the best route to take in order to get to my destination and which street to turn into at that moment. When I was unsure of where to go, I enquired and received some directions from Parisians.
I wanted to understand and appreciate the history of the neighbourhood and was constantly looking up at the old buildings, marvelling at the structure, ornate trim and iron balustrades that make Parisian buildings so distinctive. I was also aware of a few more modern structures that seemed out of place among the older, historical buildings, but had their own distinctive character and place within the cityscape. Importantly, I had to keep my eyes on the footpath ahead, watching out for another distinctive characteristic of Parisian streets: dog excrement! I had also heard about the prevalence of the 'tourist ankle injury', acquired by tourists when they are walking along city footpaths or on stairs while their attention is focused on an historical building or view well above the footpath on which they are walking. It was a long walk, with lots of twists and turns, some interesting views and experiences before I happily reached my destination.
It struck me at the time that this walk shared many elements with the journey that students take as they travel through school. It is important for students to have a clear sense of where they are going. This doesn't mean that students should know at this stage of their academic journey exactly what tertiary course or occupation they intend to pursue, but it is important that they have some clear goals. These goals might relate to a specific course or occupation but most likely the goals are related to what they would like to achieve academically and personally while attending school. Knowing what direction to take in order to reach the desired destination is critical. Sometimes it is necessary to do some research or seek advice along the way. Turning in the wrong direction may not be disastrous, but it can save time, energy and discomfort if the best choices are made in the first place.
It is useful to understand and appreciate the past because this forms the foundation of emotions, self-belief and current skills. Understanding how the past has influenced where they are now allows students to develop self-awareness and greater confidence in making positive decisions about the future. Recent experiences, whether perceived as positive or negative, can have a strong influence and reflecting on these can be useful. All this must be accompanied by the reality of the here and now. Students who focus upon the steps that are taken every day, the habits that are formed and the need for subtle changes of direction will make steady progress. There will be obstacles along the way – and some of them could be unpleasant. Anticipating these obstacles and taking action to avoid them will make an enormous difference.
Time attending school is not intended to be a leisurely stroll, but a purposeful activity designed to reach a specific destination. Students who can maintain focus on the various elements along the way will enjoy the journey and accomplish their goals.
© Michele Juratowitch michele@clearingskies.com.au