In Your Element
Sir Ken Robinson is an internationally acclaimed “education developer” and public speaker…and as the “Sir” denotes, he’s been knighted by the Queen. This isn’t just some old self-help guru though – he introduces new ways of thinking for people who are looking to live more meaningful lives. Instead of “unlocking your inner power” in some mystical way, he proposes that we essentially come to terms with who we are by nurturing creativity and honing in on our talents and to not give a damn what “everybody else” thinks we should be doing.
I found this article (pasting it for you here too to encourage you to go: http://www.brainpickings.org/index.php/2012/04/17/sir-ken-robinson-school-of-life/) about his book The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything, a bool about “the diversity of intelligence, the power of imagination and creativity, and the importance of commitment to our own capabilities.”
(Side note: I found that article on brainpickings.org, which then led me to London’s The School of Life, which actually has lectures on topics like “How to Be Cool”, “How to Find a Job You Love” and “How to Be Creative.” I think I’d love to attend the School of Life, don’t you?)
It also led me to the Holstee Manifesto, which I have probably scrolled over on Pinterest a hundred times without so much as a second glance. This time, I read it and I actually absorbed it. Maria Popova, the author of the article, refers to the manifesto as a “an eloquent and beautifully written love letter to the life of purpose” and I agree with her. How can you read this and not be inspired in some way?
I actually read this today while sitting on the couch trying to muster the motivation to design a new custom papercut. It worked – I got up. I kind of even get why someone might own the poster. I like to think that everyone is the best at something. Not everyone will figure out what it is that they’re best at, because not everyone will try. So if there is something you’re passionate about, something that makes your heart sing, you should pinpoint it and do it as much as you possibly can*, because, as Sir Ken Robinson believes, it will change everything.
*As long as it’s not meth. I’ve heard that’s bad.
Anyone else interested in reading this book? Or at least listening to his TED talk? I feel like everyone needs a little kick in the pants like this once in a while, no?
Hahaha….”as long as it’s not meth.” I like your motivation!!
When I was doing my teacher training, one of my art tutors was obsessed with Ken Robinson!! Now I want to think of lots more creative things to do with my class over the next few weeks.
Love this post Jessie…one of my master’s courses had us watch his TED Talk…and I fell in love! I sent it to all my friends and family members and went out and bought his book. I was at first mainly interested in reading it through the lense of an educator, and how we shape our students, but it ended up being a fantastic book to apply to my own life. I recommend it!
Thank you Jen! I can’t wait to read it, and it makes it so so much better to have someone I loooooove recommend it!