Handling Eruptions in the Classroom and/or Workspace
Sometimes feelings, emotions, or opinions come spewing out from students during a class or from a colleague during a department meeting. What do we do with that and how can we respond without taking it personally and without attacking the other person? These moments...Taking the High Road
We all have had situations where we desperately wanted to lash out at someone but we stopped ourselves and decided to “take the high road.” This is an admirable route in many situations and I recommend it under certain circumstances: if you are dealing with a...Giving Constructive Criticism Effectively
We all occasionally have the need to correct others with whom we work, live and/or interact. We have tried responding to others’ behavior, only to be ignored or figuratively slapped in the face. There are ways to give less-than-glowing feedback that will have...Mission and Values as our Rudder
When we make a statement about a tragic local or world event on behalf of ourselves, our department, or our campus, we often do so with our institutional mission and values in mind. We wonder when it’s appropriate to issue a statement. We hope that making a...Trying to See Both Sides of a Conflict
There are several huge world conflicts that we are all seeing and trying to understand. At the same time, we all have comparatively smaller matters involving different viewpoints that we navigate each day. Is it important to try to understand the other side? If so,...A Way to Set Goals for the New Academic Year
The beginning of a new year feels fresh, full of promise, and hopeful for many people. Some have a bit of anxiety about it because it is something different, and others might even experience outright panic. Regardless of your natural response to a new academic year,...How to Stay Motivated
There are times during the year that many people feel a bit unmotivated. Students towards the end of a semester are anxious to finish up, but may feel overwhelmed and/or burned out. Staff in the middle of a summer or winter session may find it difficult to stay on...Communication/Collaboration Tips for Managers and Department Chairs
Be clear about your preference for how those on your team communicate. If you prefer face-to-face meetings over emails or texts, let your team know. Encouraging them to talk with one another will both demonstrate that you value the importance of communication and it...How to Do SOMETHING for Racial and Social Justice
You may feel motivated to partake in social justice efforts because the topic relates to your own identity. You may be motivated because the efforts address an underrepresented or marginalized group that you care about. Ask yourself what issues you are passionate...Subscribe by Email
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