Last time I talked about the two qualities imperative to conquering the mountains in front of us and two women who have both the ‘want to’ and the ‘show up’.
But what happens when one of those is missing?
Today we had 5 no shows; people who had appointments to see how we might help them on their journey as well as students who didn’t come to class.
We’ve learned that is to be expected and aren’t generally discouraged when potential students don’t make their appointments. Showing up to that first interview is a litmus test of sorts. It indicates someone wants it enough to deal with inconvenience, discomfort or difficulty. If they show up we have hope they will go the distance.
But what happens when someone has a deep ‘want to’ but can’t manage the ‘show up’?
What if you have big dreams but your one chance to earn some money keeps you from going to GED classes or getting help from your homework coach?
What if you have the potential to not just get your GED but be the first one in your family to go to college yet your family can’t or won’t support your efforts?
What if you are surrounded by people who believe in you, cheer you on but your kid gets sick or you’re too exhausted from working the minimum wage job that barely pays your rent to make it to class?
How do you not get discouraged? How do you not give up?
I found myself trying to give a deeply motivated student encouragement to not give up. I told her we’re here for her and, “I know this is a tough balancing act but I believe in you and your potential to achieve your goals.”