Day 3 - 231 -- Beginning

Reflecting on expectations for the next academic year, that begins in about 3 weeks, filled much of my day. Planning for the needed activities to meet goals and requirements will take much effort. Many tasks are considered service -- the admin work that is beyond teaching and research. Spelling it all out in a group meeting today was eye-opening; understanding that it may not all be doable was sobering. I often write about my personal and work 'to do' lists and the inability to accomplish it all. That same realization settled on us all today as the list proposed was very ambitious. When worried noises began, we discovered the inter-connectedness of many of the listed goals, meaning that working on one item might involve two or three of the listed items. It was all in how we viewed the list. Rather than looking through panic and obligation, when things were presented as coordinated groups, the view became less stressful.

Several major changes are underway in the coming year. Preparing and delivering new and revised courses will be a huge undertaking. While the planning of these alterations is over, the operationalization is about to begin. Longer reflections will need to occur next spring to assess successes. Change brings excitement and trepidation. The Chinese characters for the concept put together the character for opportunity with the character for danger. That sums it up well -- definitely mixed emotions <smile>. Once the excitement takes hold, there is a need to try to hang onto some of that when the anxiety appears. It may help lead us through.

The song for today deals with a concept similar to that excitement -- infatuation -- which can be for things, ideas or people. The singer is one that regular readers will recognize as a favourite of mine. Enjoy!

Begin the Beguin -- Michael Nesmith