Week 3: Comment #1 - Peter Binskin

Colleague Peter Binskin shares some similar thoughts on Zander's Rule #6.  He writes:

The more I read the book the Art of Possibility by Rosamund and Ben Zander (2000) the more I love it. It’s been a comforting read as well as quite entertaining. Thank goodness for a book that makes me want to read it to see what the next chapter is going to reveal.

For me the major highlight from these four chapters (5-8) was the Rule number 6 focus in chapter 6. Even though I have a tendency to joke around to alleviate tense situations it’s usually a cover-up for the stress I’m bringing into the situation. I tend to think very much using my calculating self even though I think I am using my central self. It would be nice, some time, to actually have the presence of mind that Roz Zander portrays in this book to break things down and find a different, more positive collaborative way to get through a problem. I have now created a little sign of my own for every time I feel myself taking things too seriously.

Another thing I took away from these chapters was the idea of leading from any chair. It really came across as an empowerment piece and I was wondering how often as a teacher I squish students like the overbearing conductor just to get through the day. On Sundays I play guitar at church and afterwards I mentor a few teenagers in their playing. It’s funny how I can be the sort of person Ben Zander talks about, not being judgmental or desirous of credit as the boys get better in their playing, but supportive of them personally as they see themselves through their playing. Maybe I relax more with music than with core subjects.

My response to Peter:

I, too, am enjoying this book.  You and I seem to have a similar take on life as well as a common yearning for adapting to the concept behind Rule #6.  As I mentioned in my post, humor can break the silence of tension but I do know what you mean by allowing it to mask anxiety and stress.  I, too, often will use this tactic to divert attention from my true feelings or even embarrassment.

Your take on leadership was spot on.  Whether in the classroom or even in the home, the most important characteristic of being a leader is being a good supporter!