Mindful Monday: The Four Tendencies

The Four Tendencies

As we continue to delve into our annual theme: The Power of Voice, readings, quotes, current events, and discussions are utilized during Leadership Breakfast to cultivate individual understanding of personal voice.

I recently read the Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin (aka the author of The Happiness Project). I was so intrigued by her insight into personalities and the ways we tend to meet (or not meet) expectations or follow rules, I just had to share.  This week in Leadership, your child was introduced to this concept, completed a short quiz to identify their "tendency", and used this information as a method to mindfully reflect upon their actions.  

We connected this concept to the weekly quote: "One of the most courageous things you can do is identify yourself, know who you are, what you believe in, and where you want to go." ~Sheila Murray Bethel.

This is a glimpse into the group's discussion, led by Mr. Collins: 
First they defined the terms: 
COURAGEOUS - not deterred by danger or pain; brave and 
IDENTITY - establish who or what (someone or something) is; associate (someone) closely with; regard as having strong links to. 

Students were asked WHY would finding your identity require that type of courage? They had some awesome responses. 

They talked through the idea that it is difficult and requires courage because it requires asking tough questions and finding answers! Just like how they answered questions to find their Tendency. 

They discussed the idea of a coherent narrative about their life and the surrounding world as a necessary step, followed by differentiation and development of personal values, ideals, and beliefs. 

They were then asked to reflect and write about the second half of the quote that defines identity 'know who you are...what you believe in...where you want to go'. You may read your child's responses in his or her passion planner.

If you are intrigued by this discussion and would like to learn more about The Four Tendencies and how they can help you better know yourself, your family members, friends, and co-workers, follow this link: https://gretchenrubin.com/books/the-four-tendencies/intro/

You can take the quiz here: https://quiz.gretchenrubin.com/