Discomfort Leads to Growth

Discomfort Leads to Growth

Teaching seventh grade is both a privilege and a challenge. It's a pivotal time in a child's life, where they navigate the often turbulent waters of adolescence and grapple with self-doubt. Last year, I introduced my students to Shakespeare's "The Tempest" through a group activity in which each group was tasked with performing a scene. Initially, the idea seemed fun and engaging, but soon, a wave of anxiety swept over some students when they realized they would perform in front of their peers.

One student, in particular, approached me with a request. She asked if she could perform just for me or be excused from the activity altogether because she felt uncomfortable. I empathized with her but explained that while I value comfort in my classroom, this was an opportunity for growth that I couldn’t let her shy away from. I told her that facing this challenge would make her stronger and more resilient. I stood my ground, clarifying that participation was a requirement because I believed in her potential.

Despite her anxiety, this student eventually embraced the fact that she had to perform. When the day of the presentation arrived, she not only completed her scene but did so with remarkable poise and confidence. I was thrilled to see her smiling throughout the performance, a testament to her triumph over her fears.

The real transformation happened later when the class was assigned a history presentation. This time, without hesitation, she volunteered to present. She didn’t even ask if she could perform just for me. Instead, she took the initiative to share what she had learned, showcasing her growth and newfound confidence.

Through this experience, I witnessed firsthand the power of pushing students beyond their comfort zones. It reaffirmed my belief that growth often comes from facing challenges head-on. I also realized that my own journey as a teacher involves similar moments of discomfort. Each challenging situation helps me grow, reminding me that I, too, am on a path of continuous development. I cherish my interactions with my students, as they inspire me and highlight the importance of embracing vulnerability. Through our collective growth, I am reminded that every uncomfortable moment contributes to becoming a better educator.

As parents and educators, we have the profound responsibility to guide our students through these transformative moments, helping them discover their strength and resilience along the way.

Encouraging our kids to step out of their comfort zones is key. Whether it’s trying a new sport, speaking in front of the class, or tackling a difficult project, these experiences can lead to personal growth. It's important that our children understand that feeling uncomfortable is a normal part of learning and growing and that embracing discomfort can lead to significant personal growth. This understanding can be a powerful motivator for them.

So, let’s embrace discomfort as an opportunity for growth. Let’s encourage our kids to take on challenges and try new things. By creating a home and a school where challenges are welcomed and viewed as chances to learn, we can help our children appreciate the knowledge that discomfort leads to growth. Let's inspire them to see that every step forward, no matter how small and uncomfortable, is a victory worth celebrating.

By: Angie Briscoe, 7th Grade English/History