Practice makes perfect... or as my brother says perfect practice makes perfect

I finished writing my blog about disrespect and realized that I had no real plan for how to get better at knowing just what to say and how to say it.  I know what I want to do... but I mentioned that I am not naturally confrontational.  However, as a professional, that is something I just have to get over.  Unfortunately there are no cue cards at the back of the room when a student's unexpected outburst in class has my mind spinning.

Then an idea hit me as I was reading Smart Couples Finish Rich.  David Bach, the author, suggests asking for a raise and gives all the steps to get it.  Part of the process of asking for this raise, once everything else has been done, is to practice.  To actually set aside time and recite what you would say to your boss.  I had an "Ah-ha" moment. 

I need to practice.  It suddenly seemed so obvious... I practice for everything else.  When I had to do a reading at my friend's wedding, I made my mom listen to me practice at least 3-4 times, so that I wouldn't stumble over my words in front of the entire congregation. 

Last weekend I was the maid of honor at another wedding and when I wrote my speech I made both of my parents listen to it a dozen times and I insisted that they give me feedback.  I then read it to several friends, just to make sure.  It was well worthwhile.  I ended up receiving many compliments on the delivery.  Short and sweet, everything tied together neatly, and I said just what I wanted to the newly married couple.  Only one very observant friend of mine noticed my shaking hand... however my voice was steady and I owe that to practice. 

When I started this blog, I reminded myself of my brother... imagine that!  He used to be my soccer coach and when everyone goofed off at practice, he said "Hey, practice doesn't make perfect... perfect practice makes perfect."  Not that every shot we took had to be a goal, but a perfect practice meant that we were all focused and giving it our best. 

Just think of how long professional teams spend at training camp!  Sure, the Dallas Cowboys may have their own show,  Hard Knocks: Training Camp With The Dallas Cowboys, and make waaaay more money than me.  $$  And no, I'm not doing anything that is televised every weekend on national TV, and people aren't gambling on my successes and failures.  But I am in a position to impact many individual lives.  It is my responsibility to teach my students, and help them find their way.  I have the opportunity to change lives.  And I am not going to rest on my laurels.  Can I get an Amen? 

I should have thought of this earlier, because when I was taking education courses, we had to do role-playing.  I remember playing the part of a disruptive student being really fun.  :) It was helpful, but back then it was harder to imagine the circumstances since I had not taught yet. 

Unfortunately everyone I know is at work right now... but next chance I get, I intend to find any friends/family who are willing to act the part of disruptive students.  I am sure I will get a few laughs and they will think I am crazy... but I'm hoping that it gives me that extra edge of preparation and confidence.