The calm before the storm: Leaning into disequilibrium

The end of the year often offers us moments of quiet reflection. There’s something about the shortening of daylight and the slide into darkness earlier and earlier each day, crisp, cold air, and the twinkling lights of a fire that nudges our bodies and brains toward stillness.  

This time of year often finds me anxiously anticipating what the new year may bring. Human brains seek certainty and so the wide possibilities of a new year are sometimes overwhelming.  In those moments, I often turn to favored memories of the current year.  Gatherings with family and friends, work projects that came together at the last moment, students and classrooms overflowing with connection and care, and even some days filled with surprising adventures that pushed me toward new learnings.  

It’s this last remembrance that can help us as we peer into the unknowns of 2024–the novelty of surprise can be like an on-switch for our brains.  We can lean in with focused attention and anticipation for new experiences that will stretch our minds and grow our understanding.  We can turn on our RAS (reticular activating system) to notice things we have in common with new people -  or maybe new things we have in common with old people.

In this quiet moment, I am looking toward 2024 with a simmering excitement.  I anticipate meeting many educators seeking connections with others passionate about teaching. Educators like Laura Callendar, a high school teacher I met less than two years ago. and with whom I now share a lovely friendship.  I look forward to expanding the Neural Education greenhouse to include many more researchers, educators, and learners who will enrich our community with fresh ideas and important perspectives.  The new year brings uncertainty, and that causes me to experience disequilibrium. Still, I also know that disequilibrium can be the impetus to great things–and so I’m expecting great things for myself and Neural Education in 2024. 

And I wish the same for you!