I am sitting in a Starbucks, and focusing on writing.  I tend to come to this place because I know the taste of what I am going to drink, and I also know that I can work with people in my vision, but in isolation with no interruption.  I like the “routine” of it all, but also know that with a large pair of headphones, I can concentrate and get things done without any interruptions from others. I have done more writing in a Starbucks than I have any other place in the world.

There is so much focus on collaboration in education. I think the ability to work with others is crucial, but I also don’t think we have to do it all of the time.  Whether we are face-to-face or online, we almost can be overconnected unless we decide to disconnect ourselves.

Human connection (face-to-face) is essential, but so is human disconnection.  We need to learn to be able to be alone and work alone. I watch my daughter playing, and sometimes she walks into another room, grabs some toys, and takes some time to herself. She is not worried about what I am doing or what is happening on social media. It is just her and her thoughts with no around but her. I don’t know why she does it or when it is going to happen, but as much as I love her being around me, I also love that she sometimes sits on her own with no prompting.

I don’t even know where I am going with this or why I am writing it. Working in isolation right now, this is what I started thinking about, and I just chose to write it down.  This time I have created for myself to process my thoughts is invaluable to me and something, I think many students could benefit from in schools.  Reflection on our own is crucial to moving forward.