Discovering the art of learning: A journey through teaching

My working life has been a vibrant tapestry of experiences, brimming with diverse roles, challenges, and revelations. Over the past 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of developing seminars, coaching individuals, consulting organizations, and facilitating groups across a wide spectrum of topics. My clientele has ranged from senior citizens and troubled teenagers to creatively blocked adults and everything in between.

From leading creative writing workshops at a yoga center to teaching university courses, from hosting community poetry readings to mentoring at a high-priced boarding school, I’ve worn many hats—and each one has enriched my understanding of what it means to teach and learn.

But when I was first hired to teach an “Instructional Strategies” course in a teacher credentialing program, I was terrified. With no formal classroom teaching experience, I stood before seasoned educators who had years of practical knowledge. What could I possibly teach them?

In my search for answers, I stumbled upon a truth that changed everything: teaching isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about being an expert learner. By approaching teaching as a shared exploration, I discovered that real learning happens when we embrace uncertainty, experiment, and grow alongside our students.

This perspective not only shaped my classroom experience but has become a cornerstone of my philosophy. Whether working with corporate trainers, social workers, or high school teachers, I’ve found that teaching works best when we draw on the wisdom in the room, co-creating insights and solutions together.

As I reflect on my journey, I’m reminded that learning is a messy, beautiful adventure. And in that messiness lies the magic of creativity and discovery.