Intensity vs. Consistency
Content warning: The following post includes a health/diet example that speaks to our diet culture - the belief that one’s worth is tied to thinness or some “ideal” weight. I use this example because the cycle is unfortunately one that many have experienced or know.
I want to lose twenty pounds. I join P90x or some rabid, popular program. I see little to no change after a few weeks. My motivation wanes. I burnout. I stop. A few months later I’ll restart the cycle.
Independent schools handle equity initiatives in a similar fashion. The “Black@” IG pages, in conjunction with increased calls for systemic change, caused many independent schools to enter this intense and unsustainable cycle. Right now, our motivation is low, our burnout is high, and many schools have stopped. Unfortunately, the restart looms.
Let’s use a consistent approach.
Behavior change begins with identity change, so I want to be someone who does not miss a workout. I start slow. I get used to showing up. After a while, I increase my training incrementally. I enjoy working out. I notice I’m getting stronger. I develop friendships with others who enjoy working out and we do it together. I lose more weight than I originally imagined because I haven’t missed a workout in a year.
We want all community members to feel a deep sense of belonging. We start by pronouncing each community members name and pronouns correctly. We provide training and support around equity work, including with the board. We change our schedule to include consistent equity learning opportunities. We join other educators who enjoy exploring how to make schools more equitable. We practice; we fail; we apologize. We notice students, faculty/staff, families and alumni willingly take educational and social risks because they feel protected and valued. We ask them what they need and respond proactively. We build trust. We grow together. We notice that our behaviors and beliefs have changed.
Consistency beats intensity every time.
