Taylee. Summary: Primal cues help to spark ignition. But, if the ignition energy dies, so does everything else. There needs to be a constant reminder of why we should keep trying. Some of these reminders are tangible/visual: trophies, role models, potential employers etc. All of those cues are sending the message, "Hey, that could be you." Another very important cue are the words we use and hear to describe our effort, progress, you name it. The best kind of praise is the kind that celebrates our effort and not the end result. Praising the end result instills in us the thought that we are only good if we achieve X. Noticing and encouraging effort helps us to keep the ignition energy going. We are less likely to completely give up if we know that we are doing our best and can continue to get better.
Key Concepts: Good praise is the kind that motivates. Too much praise can be a hindrance; Praise should be a reward not an expectation. Talent hotbeds stay hotbeds when there is a constant reminder of potential success.
Key Terms: Sustained ignition. Motivational Language.
Making Connections: Last year I received some of the best advice from someone I really respect. I was stressing out about my grades and wondering how I was going to pull off A's while working 20+ hours a week, and adjusting to my role as a wife and not just a roommate. He said to me, "Taylee, what do you think my grades were while I was getting my Doctorate?" I shrugged. He said, "It doesn't matter. What matters is I know how to apply what I learned. Stop worrying about your GPA and worry about whether or not you learned something, and can apply that knowledge afterwards when the grade isn't there anymore." In essence, I was worried about being praised for my intelligence and not for my effort. When I teach students, I need to keep them motivated by helping them enjoy the journey.
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