Sharpening the Saw

In my EDL 610 course, which is Visionary Leadership, we are spending time learning, teaching and demonstrating the Habits of Highly Effective Learners by Stephan Covey.  This week, the final topic is on sharpening the saw.

An interesting quote by Abraham Lincoln was shared: "If I had six hours to chop down a tree, I'd spend the first four hours sharpening the axe."  The idea is preparing for the long game, and to get ahead and stay ahead of the curve.  An example was also shared ... tending to the garden.  This is not a single day activity, but a daily activity if it is to be a successful and flourishing garden.  This habit is about learning, growing, experiencing.  

When it comes to making a commitment on this notion of sharpening the saw, my commitment is to continue to be a supporter of life-long learning.  I will strive to look for ways to stay current in my profession, and encourage my peers to seek opportunities to enhance their skill-sets.  We can keep the saw sharp by continiously learning, from one another, through workshops, and other available means.  

The idea that I'll stop when I am dead holds true, especially with this habit of sharpening the saw.  If I am not learning, if I am not growing, I'll be stuck in place and the world, and those unique experiences, will pass me by.  The saw must remain sharp, to be effective in both the personal and professional realms.